The NSW Swifts would like to congratulate head coach Briony Akle who will join the New Zealand Silver Ferns’ coaching team for their upcoming Test Series against England and Australia.
This is the second time that Akle, who will act as a specialist coach under NZ mentor Dame Noeline Taura and assistant Debbie Fuller, has been invited to be part of the Ferns’ backroom team.
New Zealand hosts the Roses for three Tests across the Tasman in late September and early October before gearing up for a Constellation Cup Series against the Diamonds.
Akle’s international commitments do not impact her role as head coach of the Swifts.
Tracey Scott, CEO of Netball NSW, said:
“This is a wonderful opportunity for Briony and we are very proud to see another Swift make their way on the international scene.
“Earlier this year the Swifts were delighted to welcome Dame Noeline Taura into their environment and her and Briony’s relationship is one built on respect and a desire to keep learning.
“If you stand still in this game it will pass you by, and what better place is there to learn than the pinnacle of our game: the Test Arena.
“After a season of record attendances and viewership across Suncorp Super Netball, we are really fortunate to have such a strong international window to look forward to and we can’t wait to tune in.”
Akle thanked both the Silver Ferns and the Swifts for the opportunity.
“I travelled to the UK with the Ferns last year it was an amazing experience to be a part of such a respected and successful international environment,” she said.
“Noeline is one of the greatest coaches to have ever been involved with our game and it will be a privilege to continue learning from her, and from Debbie too.
“I would also like to thank the Swifts for being so accommodating to allow this professional development during the international window.
“As a coach I am a firm believer that the sharing of ideas and philosophies will always put you on the right path to success because it increases critical thinking by broadening your view of the game.
“There are some really massive international netball games coming up and I cannot wait to be a part of them.”
