Jemma Karetai is the Team Manager of the Aotearoa Men's side to play the Silver Ferns starting tomorrow (from 10-12 October). She joins David Pala'amo (Head Coach), Dion Te Whetu (Assistant Coach) and seven players as representatives from Christchurch.

CNC: Firstly, congratulations Jemma on your appointment! Is this your first appointment to a National team?
JK: Yes - I have done regional management however very excited to have my first NZ appointment. 

CNC: As we all know, the team's schedule has been disrupted by a change in venue due to COVID. Does that hamper preparations at all?
JK: Our team preparations have stayed the same, we have just had some additions into our squad due to COVID. 

CNC: What is the lead in time for preparation given the different locations of players? Has it been more difficult to coordinate in particular this year?
JK: Zoom has been our best friend. We have done lots of zoom calls with the players. We have 3 days in camp together before the 3 test days which has been great. 

CNC: Five of the squad selected are from Christchurch, which is amazing representation. What are we doing down here that is making these players so special?
JK: Yeah Christchurch has a really good representation this year. We have a really strong men’s competition in Christchurch which I think helps the players prepare for this level. We also have South Islands that we have participated in as well. 

CNC: Captain Kruze Tangira is an inspiration to all netballers. Is it possible to describe him in three words?
JK: Passionate, Talented, Authentic.

CNC: And finally, what are the team's performance goals for the series?
JK: The performance goals for the team is ultimately to win playing our style of netball.

Thank you so much Jemma, we wish you, management and the team all the very best for the series. We can't wait!

Article added: Saturday 09 October 2021