Netball New Zealand update on elite domestic competition
Netball New Zealand (NNZ) says the way events have unfolded publicly over the past few days has been deeply regrettable, particularly for players, coaches and staff facing uncertainty about their futures.
NNZ Chief Executive Jennah Wootten said confidential correspondence about the Board's decision to end negotiations on the proposed privatisation of the elite domestic competition was leaked to media on Friday, before NNZ had the opportunity to speak directly with those most affected.
The statements NNZ provided on Friday were in response to media enquiries, rather than a planned public announcement.
“Our intention was always to speak with players before any public announcement, and to do so with as much clarity as possible about the pathway forward.
This leak has not had Players’ interests or wellbeing in mind, and I am so sorry that players have instead had to learn of this decision through the media rather than direct from NNZ. This was not how we intended such important information to be communicated. The distress and uncertainty it has created is deeply regrettable.
Our intention was to brief players about any decision ahead of anyone else, including sharing details of what comes next.
There is an advanced plan under development for an elite domestic netball competition in 2027. We are meeting with Zones and Teams today to further progress this work and will share substantive information once the plan is sufficiently developed.
We know how difficult this uncertainty is, particularly for players whose careers and livelihoods are affected. We care deeply about these players and their futures, as well as those of the talented support staff who work in elite netball across New Zealand. Any and all decisions NNZ makes is with the best interests of our people and our sport at its absolute core. Our unwavering focus is on providing clarity for all concerned, as swiftly as possible, and from there working towards an exciting and sustainable future for elite domestic netball.”