Netball: Hodson replaced as Diamonds coach

Former Australian netballer Sue Hawkins has replaced Joan Hodson as head coach of the Auckland Diamonds.

Hawkins, a goal attack for the 1983 world championship team, was appointed for two years today to lead the team in the National Bank Cup (NBC).

Hawkins has been coaching in Australia for the past 18 years, including stints with Australia B, Australian Institute of Sport and with Commonwealth Bank team the Queensland Firebirds for the past four years.

Diamonds board chairman Phil Holden told NZPA Hodson had reapplied for the position after her current contract expired but the board chose Hawkins as they were looking to improve their attack.

Holden admitted that the Diamonds' failure to reach the NBC semifinals during Hodson's two-year reign was also a factor.

The Diamonds last made the semifinals in 1999.

"I am very excited to take up the challenge of the new position. There are a lot of talented players in the Auckland side. It will be terrific to blend an Australian style and New Zealand style and utilise the skills already available," Hawkins said in a statement.

"I wanted to apply for the role to get overseas experience. I've had nearly 20 years' experience at elite level in Australia and this is a chance to really challenge and refresh myself."

- NZPA