The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic is pleased to announce the appointments of Mary-Jane Araroa as assistant coach and Mandy Souchon as team manager for the 2019 ANZ Premiership season.
Araroa, who has led the Waikato Bay of Plenty Beko Netball League side for the 2018 season, brings a strong coaching pedigree to the Magic where she will assist head coach Amigene Metcalfe.
Souchon joins the Magic having proven her team management skills with Waikato Bay of Plenty in 2017.
Netball Waikato Bay of Plenty CEO Rohan West said it was fantastic to secure two strong support staff from within the Zone’s own pathways.
“Congratulations to Mary-Jane and Mandy on joining the WBOP Magic whanau. As with players, for the organisation to be able to promote from within the greater Netball Waikato Bay of Plenty family for these roles is very gratifying,” he said.
“Our professional development and pathways for coaches and team support staff are working well and we are creating opportunities for talented netball professionals to stay, and succeed, in our Zone.
“Mary-Jane’s trajectory and achievements in the Netball WBOP and Netball NZ spheres are well documented, especially the performance of WBOP’s Beko Netball League team in 2018 so this is a natural progression for her.
“We are also delighted to welcome Mandy back after a year away. Her past experience with our Beko Netball League team and all-round knowledge and capability will be vital for the team.”
Magic head coach Amigene Metcalfe echoed the sentiment and said she is excited about the prospects for next season.
“A massive welcome to both Mandy and MJ. The team is very fortunate to have such quality people within our Zone and they both bring a wealth of knowledge and life experience,” said Metcalfe.
“MJ will be an invaluable addition to our coaching team and will add real value to player development and team performance. Mandy has a proven track record in managing high performance teams and is a passionate netball supporter.”
The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic will get the 2019 ANZ Premiership season underway in style, hosting an opening round Super Sunday at Claudelands Arena on Sunday 24 February.
Mary-Jane Araroa – Assistant Coach
- 2018 Waikato BOP Beko Netball League head coach
- 2017-2018 New Zealand Secondary Schools head coach
- 2013-2014 Waikato BOP Under 23 coach
- NZ Maori Secondary Schools team
- NZ Maori team
Mandy Souchon – Team Manager
- 2017 Waikato BOP Manager
- Managed Cook Islands Netball team
