The outgoing Silver Ferns coach Wai Taumaunu says it's time for a fresh voice to lead the national side.
Taumaunu is stepping down after four years in top job. Photo: Photosport
After four years in charge, Taumaunu is stepping down as coach of the Silver Ferns at the conclusion of the Constellation Cup series against Australia in October.
Prior to her elevation to the top job, Taumaunu also had two stints as assistant coach and says after eight years it's time for change.
"It's a good time for the Ferns and Netball New Zealand to look at the whole programme and on that basis I decided that a fresh voice was really important and that meant that I wouldn't be part of it," she said.
Taumaunu believes the national side have the makings of a team that can beat Australia on a regular basis.
"And I was pretty keen to [stay on] because I'm really optimistic about the youngsters in this group but I then had to look at it, I'd been there for eight years and perhaps that could be achieved but also achieved in a new and different way."
She said she was looking forward to leading the team for the final four Tests of the year and will always remain passionate about the Silver Ferns.
"I have enjoyed every moment as head coach and would like to acknowledge the massive support and incredible team who I have worked with over the last four years."
After last year's 18-goal drubbing by Australia in the Commonwealth Games final, Taumaunu made some bold selections for her World Cup squad.
It paid dividends, with the Ferns beating Australia for the first time in nearly two years in pool play, but they couldn't repeat the feat in the final, losing by three goals to their arch-rivals.
Netball New Zealand Chief Executive Hilary Poole paid tribute to Taumaunu saying she guided the team through a period of great change and growth over the past four years.
"Waimarama has left an indelible mark on our sport. She has instilled in the Silver Ferns a renewed sense of belief and fearlessness following their performances at Netball World Cup," Poole said.
"We are confident that she still has more to give and we are going to ensure that she remains involved in the game. As one of our sport's great, she will not be lost to Netball in New Zealand; she is hugely respected by all at Netball New Zealand, and the Silver Ferns.
Applications for the head coaching role close at 5pm today and Netball New Zealand hope to announce the appointment by mid-November.
