Netball South Africa (NSA) embarked on a lengthy

process to asses and evaluate the three candidates who applied for the top coaching position in Netball. Assisted by Lynn Gunson, a former New Zealand National Coach and member of the International Coaches Committee, who now resides and coaches in the UK. Members from the NSA Board of Coaches (former national coaches), also formed part of the selection panel.

The process included practical sessions where candidates were expected to demonstrate their practical netball coaching skills, knowledge of the game as well as their interpretation of the game. They were also given certain tasks to complete on all aspects of the game.

The process also involved an interview session aimed at determining their leadership abilities.

What became apparent was that NSA has a long way to go in the development of coaches to compare favourably Internationally. However it was imperative that NSA appoint a head coach to train, prepare and develop the SPAR National Team for the 2011 World Netball Championships (WNC). This programme cannot be delayed.

Out of the 3 candidates evaluated, Carin Strauss, an experienced coach with a proven track record, was selected. The other 2 candidates (a 3rd person is still to be identified) will be placed in a programme over a two year period aimed at identifying and appointing an Assistant Coach. In effect this means that Carin Strauss will be working with the 3 other candidates as well as advisory coaches to prepare the team for 2011 WNC in Singapore.

NSA is confident in their decision with the appointment of Carin Strauss as Head Coach and look forward to working with, assisting and supporting her over the next few years. We wish her well!