New Netball Whanganui operations manager Malissa Mahony well-equipped for the role

Netball Whanganui operations manager Malissa Mahony feels right at home in the new role with courtside on the doorstep of her Laird Park office.

Newly-appointed Netball Whanganui operations manager Malissa Mahony is well-equipped for the role.

Mahony still actively plays the game for a Marist social side after many years taking to the court at various levels including premier and representative. She also continues to coach and more recently aspires to become an umpire.

"I used to coach at intermediate and secondary school level (Wanganui Collegiate School), but now I just coach an intermediate team for St Marcellin School," Mahony said.

"I also managed the U15 representative side about three years ago and lately I've been getting into a bit of umpiring and still play socially for Marist."

Mahony has taken over the role from Parekura Muraahi and is working alongside netball development officer Walter Edmonds helping to grow the game in Whanganui.

"Walter has already made great progress increasing numbers especially at school age level and in particular primary and that's just what we want to see. Whanganui netball is in very good heart, but we will continue to grow the sport.

"I love our offices at Laird Park with all the courts right outside the door, for me it's more a passion rather than a job," Mahony said.