Natu finds her feet

By Jarrod Potter
NATU Faanana has travelled a long way to become the coach of the Cranbourne Netball Club’s A grade team.
Originally from New Zealand, Faanana moved to Australia with her partner and kids three years ago – and found her way into the Cranbourne coaching role by coincidence.
“I came down for a training session and absolutely loved the girls. We got talking and at the time there was no A Grade coach, so I just decided to take it on,” Faanana said.
Her experience in New Zealand and her professionalism towards netball stand as great assets, according to Cranbourne president Graham McAleese.
“Since Natu has been A grade coach, there’s been a buzz about the club. The girls actually like training, instead of it being a drag to come to,” McAleese said.
“Natu has been a big help by bringing enthusiasm back to the club and giving great knowledge to our younger players.”
Returning to netball after the birth of her third child, Faanana believes the club can improve dramatically on last season’s record – with better strategies and tactics.
“Given the right opportunities, and if I make the right decisions as coach and put the right combinations on the court, we can go as far as we want to,” Faanana said.
“I wouldn’t count us out at this stage from quarter finals or even semis.”
Faanana believes Cranbourne’s younger talent is set to make a big impact this year under her guidance.
“There is Tara Cecil, who has been a club girl for a long time. She’s young but her experience and her game play are exceptional. Then we have Emily Wilson, who has also had the opportunity to play in the VNL and should perform well this year,” Faanana said.
Cranbourne start the season at home on Saturday against Devon Meadows.