Netball: Joan Hodson to coach Diamonds

Former Silver Fern and international netball umpire Joan Hodson will coach the Auckland Diamonds franchise in next year's National Bank Cup.

Hodson will take over from Georgina Salter who has filled the role for the past two years, the Diamonds board announced today.

Hodson played for New Zealand from 1986-1993, and was part of the Auckland team for 12 successive seasons from 1982.

She was also part of the world champion New Zealand women's touch team in 1991.

After her retirement she turned to umpiring and by 1997 had acquired her international umpires badge. She also recently completed a level two coaching certificate.

Hodson said coaching was a natural progression for her.

"I've always been attracted to coaching and am really excited at the prospect of being able to work with the top players from this region," Hodson said.

"I want to be seen as a coach able to develop a potent, dynamic style of netball that will attract back to Auckland players who have gone for whatever reasons to other regions."

Hodson, currently head of physical education at Auckland's Green Bay High School, will be employed as a full-time coach to also identify and develop talent in the Auckland-Waitakere area.

- NZPA