Former Silver Fern captain Ana Noovao dies aged 58
Ana Noovao also played for and coached the Cook Islands.
Former New Zealand netball captain Ana Noovao has died at the age of 58 after a long illness. Born in New Zealand, the midcourter represented her country between 1989 and 1992, earning 23 test caps. Netball New Zealand expressed deep sorrow over Noovao's passing, stating that she passed away peacefully in Rockhampton, Queensland, surrounded by her family and loved ones.
Noovao, who took immense pride in her Cook Island heritage, was known for her natural creativity and calm temperament on the court. She was recognized early on when she toured Canada with the New Zealand Young Internationals in 1986. Noovao made her Silver Ferns debut in April 1989, aged 21, and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming vice-captain the following year. She captained the team in 1992, just months before Waimarama Taumaunu's retirement, one of the most emotional results in Silver Ferns history.
In 1991, Noovao led the Silver Ferns to the World Championship final, where they narrowly lost to Australia by a single goal. After retiring as a player, Noovao continued to contribute to netball as a coach for the Cook Islands team, leading them to seventh place at the 2007 World Netball Championships in Auckland. Her coaching sessions at local South Auckland schools helped generations of young players take an interest in the sport.
Netball New Zealand president Dr Tina Karaitiana praised Noovao's grace, leadership, and passion for the game. She described her as a generous captain who gave back far more than she received, both as a player and a coach. Karaitiana extended condolences to Noovao's family, team-mates, and everyone she touched throughout her career in netball.
Written by urgent.news from RNZ Pacific's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
