Australian netball coach Lisa Alexander will continue her role as head coach for the Diamonds after signing a four year contract yesterday.
“I’ve got the energy and passion to continue coaching at the highest level for another four years and feel that I have more to contribute to the athletes, coaches and the sport,” Alexander said.
The re-signing is well timed as the Australian Diamonds prepare for the 2015 Netball World Cup series this August, which will be held in Sydney. It also means she will see out the coaching role for their gold medal defence at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth games as well as the 2019 World Cup.
“I’m excited by the challenges ahead, not just the 2018 Commonwealth Games and 2019 Netball World Cup, but the continued development of Netball Australia’s High Performance systems and athlete and coach pathways.”
It follows a successful 2014 Commonwealth Games campaign, where they won the gold medal for the first time in 12 years.
“It’s a privilege and honor to coach Australia. I’m grateful for the faith and confidence that Netball Australia has shown and the support they’ve provided me to become the coach I am today,” Alexander said.
Alexander has had a successful career in netball, both as a player and a coach. Her contribution to netball was recognised last year after she was awarded the Australian Institute of Sport Coach of the Year.
Alexander is set to announce the World Cup Diamonds squad following the conclusion of the ANZ Championships on Wednesday June 24. The Diamonds will kick start their World Cup campaign against Trinidad and Tobago on August 7. – Ellen Conroy
Top photo from NAPARAZZI’s Flickr stream
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