At its best, netball can be a place of belonging, mentoring and manaakitanga.

We rely on healthy, positive influences who understand the power of sport to lift the mana of whānau and communities.

The wellbeing of young women is at the heart of Emma Newman’s involvement with netball over 13 years. From a junior coach at Elmwood School to chair of the Christchurch Girls’ High School (CGHS) Netball committee, Emma has a simple message from these years in sport:

“Turn up to Ngā Puna Wai with aroha in your heart,” she says.

Emma reminds her community of parents that on a “Top 10” list of reasons to play netball, “friendship and camaraderie are always right up there at the top.”

Competition comes last, she adds, although some parents may think it comes first.

“We all have to be flexible and remind ourselves that people play netball for many different reasons. We have to manage what players want – and deserve.”

Emma says that Robin Brown, Christchurch Girls’ High School sports coordinator, is her reason for continuing to give endless time and energy to netball. She says Robin’s influence has shaped a healthy club environment.

“We put energy into just turning up,” Emma explains. And they have a common, clear message for netball parents:

Get out of their way and just support them.

This comes from Emma’s own experience with two daughters in the sport system.

“We just don’t know the damage we can do to their self-esteem if we start being critical of how they’re playing. Remember – they are only children.”

With Emma’s leadership, Christchurch Girls’ High School coaches express pride unequivocally, whether a small win at a lower grade, or a historic achievement (taking sixth place at 2024 South Island Secondary School Nationals).

“It’s the reflection of a really healthy club – when the emphasis is simply to be the best person you can be.”

Emma’s own daughters were encouraged into the game at Elmwood in 2010 by Mandy Anderson. Emma marvelled at Mandy’s dedication as a volunteer and signed up to give time herself.

“You can’t expect good people to be volunteering for our children without helping out ourselves,” Emma explains.

According to Emma, giving back is critical.

“Parents want the best for their children. If we don’t give back in different ways, we’re doing to have no sport for our children. It’s where they learn resilience, friendship – everything.”

Emma’s own daughters were encouraged to play at least one summer and one winter sport. The family agreed the focus would be friendship and fitness – it never mattered what level.

“I am so clear that even though our children are high achievers, there is no way in hell they would have been able to get where they are without being in sports teams.”

Emma sees the benefit in being able to leave the day’s events behind at school.

“It’s a whole different group of children you can hang out with on the netball courts.”

In spite of her focus on social connection and wellbeing, Emma describes herself as “a very competitive mother.”

“I loved it when my children won – but at what cost? You have to come off that court with dignity.”

And, Emma points out, the motivation to return for the next season is key. For that reason, CGHS and other clubs are clear on what motivates kids – and making sure they do that well.

“We know that grumpy people and being yelled at by parents – that’s why we lose kids to netball.”

Whether it’s nurturing volunteer coaches or the kids themselves, Emma is clear on the simple strategy that has been successful for Christchurch Girls’: gratitude.

“How do we keep people interested in coming back? Lots and lots of thank yous.”

Article added: Tuesday 10 December 2024