Silver Ferns To Compete In Oceania Netball Tri Series   12 Nov 2014

Netball New Zealand (NNZ) is pleased to announce the Silver Ferns will travel to Fiji in January, 2015 to participate in an inaugural Oceania Netball Tri Series against Fiji and Samoa supported by SKY Sport, who will also show all games live. It will be the first time the Silver Ferns have competed in Fiji and the New Zealanders have committed to taking 12 players to the Fijian capital, Suva.

The Silver Ferns will play three test matches, two against Fiji and one against Samoa with every match broadcast live on SKY Sport.

Silver Ferns coach Waimarama Taumaunu says the matches are an important part of the build-up towards the Netball World Cup in Sydney in August 2015.

“I know the players will be excited about this Oceania Series as it’s the beginning of what will be an intense programme as we continue to build towards the 2015 Netball World Cup next year.

“It’s a great opportunity to give the team a run as we continue to build on key combinations and build significant depth in the squad.”

The Silver Ferns Squad will reassemble in early January for an intensive training camp with a strong emphasis on fitness and conditioning in preparation for the tour.

Netball Fiji President Wainikiti Bogidrau says Suva will welcome the Silver Ferns and the Samoan national team with open arms.

“We are thrilled to host the very first Oceania Series here in our capital city, Suva,” she said.

“To have teams like the Silver Ferns and Samoa coming to play our national team at home is an honour and we will make sure the Oceania Series is a memorable event for everyone.”

NNZ Chief Executive Hilary Poole says the matches are important for the development of Netball in the Oceania region.

“We recognise the importance of supporting the development and preparation of Oceania countries and we’re thrilled for the Silver Ferns to be given the opportunity to play our island neighbours Fiji and Samoa,” she said.

“It’s great for Netball in the Oceania region and is a milestone event which we hope can be repeated in the future.”

The Silver Ferns will fly to Suva on January 16th. Whilst in Fiji, Silver Ferns coach’s Waimarama Taumaunu and assistant coach Vicki Wilson will also offer their expertise to local Fijian coaches.

Test Match Dates:
Monday 19 January Silver Ferns v Fiji
Tuesday 20 January Silver Ferns v Samoa
Wednesday 21 January Fiji v Samoa
Thursday 22 January Silver Ferns v Fiji

The Silver Ferns squad will arrive back in New Zealand on Friday 23 January.

House of Travel have also released a Registration of Interest Page for supporters interested in travelling to Fiji for the Oceania Netball Tri Series. Travellers will be accompanied by Irene van Dyk on board.

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