ANZ Premiership Hearing Decision Released

The ANZ Premiership Judicial hearing into the process around the suspension and ordering off of Northern Stars player Fa’amu Ioane has concluded, finding the officials involved were justified in suspending Ioane and then subsequently ordering her from the court.

The Judicial Officer confirmed the umpires had followed correct processes but believed there was an opportunity to address supporting procedures and processes which may result in some changes for the second half of the 2018 season. The Judicial Officer also found that the way in which the suspension of Ioane was described by the umpire created confusion as to the basis of her suspension, although ultimately the suspension was justified.

Recommendations for possible rule-changes in the ANZ Premiership have been made following the judicial hearing.

ANZ Premiership Commissioner Kate Agnew said the thorough review had raised some areas of interest regarding the processes around warnings and suspensions, which could be addressed mid-season.

“Because it is a rare occurrence in Netball to have a player ordered off we need to ensure that the process is well-supported and clear for officials to implement and athletes and teams to understand,” she said.

“The judicial hearing has given us the opportunity to address some of these areas which may result in an update of or addition to the ANZ Premiership rules.”

“The ANZ Premiership continues to fully support umpires decision-making in line with the 2018 Game Management Rules. All parties involved with the ANZ Premiership need to understand and recognise their responsibilities within the competition and any potential consequences of their actions,” Agnew said.