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Keep your finger on the Pulse. Check back here regularly for all things new about the Pulse.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Thunderbirds

07 July 2008

Whilst it was another disappointing loss for the Pulse it was however a very positive performance against a potential winner of the ANZ Championships. The Adelaide Thunderbirds finished the regular season in third place and will host a semi-final against the Melbourne Vixens in Adelaide. They have a star studded line up lead by the newly appointed Australia Vice Captain in centre Natalie Von Bertouch.

The 12 goal loss was in fact the best effort the Pulse have put out against an Australian team and is a far cry from the 28 and 29 goal losing margins against the Firebirds and Swifts. This in itself shows the improvements the Pulse have made to their game as the season has gone on.

They begun against the Thunderbirds matching them in all aspects of the game. The first quarter belonged the the defenders from both teams. It was a hard struggle for the attackers to penetrate the tough defensive game which both teams were playing. First quarter scores 11-10 to the Thunderbirds.

A few unforced errors by the Pulse saw the Thunderbirds gain a slight advantage during the second quarter. Cushla Litchwark and Sonia Mkoloma were defending stoutly across the transverse line and making many fine interceptions. The Pulse attack line of Susan Tagicakibau, Jimilah Gupwell, Lauren Burgess and Frances Solia were finding the going difficult under the extreme pressure from the Thunderbirds defence line. Half time scores 22-17 to the Thunderbirds.

An unchanged line up took to the court in the third quarter but as has been the case all year the Pulse have been unable to string 4 consistent quarter together. Against the Thunderbirds it was the third quarter. Far too many unforced errors crept in and the Pulse lost focus and concentration to give the the quarter to the Thunderbirds 13-4. Three quarter time scores 35-21.

The home town Napier crowd yelled as the Pulse rallied in the final quarter. Coach Kate Carpenter made two changes to the Pulse line up bringing Amber Bellringer to goal shooter and Neesher Weiser to wing attack. This had the desired effect. Once again it was the Pulse back to their best. They fought valiantly and secured many turnovers from the Thunderbirds to outscore them 11-9. Final score 44-32 to the Thunderbirds.

So at the end of the season the score board will show no wins for the Pulse but it has been a positive experience for all concerned. Many young players have taken the court on regular occasions and this will only serve the Pulse well in years to come. It is now a time to sit back and reflect as all the post season reviews will now take place and the re-contracting of players begins.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Mystics

28 June 2008

There was nothing mystical about the performance of the Pulse in losing 28-42 to the Mystics. It was a matter of too may unforced errors which gave the Mystics far too many easy goals.

The first quarter was a dour struggle with both defence lines doing great work to turn the ball over numberous times. Both teams took time to settle in attack and gave each other many opportunitites to score. Quarter score 8-7 Mystics.

Susan Tagicakibau (GS) and Jimmilah Gupwell (GA) found the going tough in the second quarter with Silver Ferns defenders Leanna de Bruin and Villimina Davu playing extremely tight defence. The score reflected this with the Pulse only managing 4 goals for the quarter. Half time score 18-11 Mystics.

Coach Kate Carpenter made changes in the attack line bringing on Amber Bellringer to goal shooter and Hayley Crofts to centre. Captain Frances Solia moved from centre to wing attack in an effort to produce more movement in the forward line. The Pulse matched it goal for goal in this quarter but the damage had already be done. Three quarter time score 30-21 Mystics.

The Mystics pulled away again in the fourth quarter with Catherine Latu and Paula Griffin putting on 12 goals between them. Once again the Pulse were struggling to penetrate the tight Mystics defence and only posted 7 goals for the quarter. Final score 42-28 Mystics.

It was a disappointing loss for the pulse who had shown such great improvement against competition leaders the Magic the week before. However they now have only one game left to finally put all the hard work together. Let's hope that it alll goes right for the Pulse when they play the Thunderbirds next Monday in Napier.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Magic

22 June 2008

Pulse supporters should feel very proud of their team after they went down by only five goals to competition leaders the Bay of Plenty Magic. Even though it was not the win the Pulse were after it was an almightly effort against a team which boasts five current and one former Silver Fern.

From the first quarter it was game on for the Pulse with all players tuned in and ready for a big performance. Susan Tagicakibau and Jimilah Gupwell were on target early netting 12 from their 14 attempts. It was true team commitment as the defensively effort from all players forced the Magic into error. The Magic found themselves in unfamiliar territory being 11-12 down at the first break.

The second quarter proved to be the downfall for the Pulse as the Magic gained a 10-2 advantage before the Pulse pulled back to end the quarter 25-19 down. Neesha Wieser entered the game at wing attack for the Pulse as Lauren Burgess was substituted at the end of the second quarter due to an ankle injury.

The Pulse once again worked hard as a team during the third quarter with Sonia Mkoloma and Cushla Lichtwark turning the ball over with timely interceptions to send the ball back to the Pulse shooters. Frances Solia was leading by example having a wonderful captain's game in the centre. Again the Pulse won the quarter 11-10 with the score 35-30 to the Magic at three quarter time.

The final quarter was a goal for goal battle. The Magic forged ahead only to see the Pulse pull it back again. It was wonderful to see the Pulse stay strong and believe in themselves to the end. The quarter ended at eleven all. Final score 46-41 to the Magic.

So even though a win was not forthcoming it was certainly inspiring stuff from the Pulse which hopefully will see them in a good frame of mind to post their first win against the Mystics in Auckland next Saturday 28 June.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Tactix

15 June 2008

It was not a case of third time lucky for the Pulse after yet another agonising draw against the Tactix which saw the Pulse walk away still searching for their first win after going down by one goal in extra time.

Again a slow start marred the Pulse’s opening play, which saw them down 1-9 after only six minutes of play. This tentative beginning produced many passing errors and resulted in the Pulse playing catch up for the rest of the quarter. To their credit the Pulse managed a mini fight back to only be six goals down at the first break. Score 14-8 to the Tactix.

With far greater experience in their playing personnel, the Tactix surged ahead at the start of the second quarter to be out by eleven goals. This resulted in coach Kate Carpenter making changes when Lauren Burgess was forced form the court with a neck injury. Susan Tagicakibau replaced Amber Bellringer at goal shooter whist Neesha Wieser came on at wing attack for the injured Lauren Burgess. The changes had a positive effect on the team who ended the second quarter eight goals in arrears. Score 24-16.

After regrouping at half time the Pulse girls showed great tenacity to claw their way back into the match to be within five goals at three quarter time. Score 35-29.

The fourth quarter was a neck and neck struggle with the Pulse playing with great heart and passion to fight with every ounce of energy they could muster. Player of the match Sonia Mkoloma nullified many of the Tactix forays into their attack line. When the match looked gone with minutes remaining the Pulse surged again to draw the game 41-41 having outscored the Tactix 12-6 in the quarter.

During the first period of extra time the Tactix forged ahead by five goals and all seemed lost for the Pulse however with sheer guts and determination and superb teamwork the Pulse fought back but to no avail as the Tactix scored the winning goal with seconds to spare. Final score 50-49.

It was gut wrenching stuff for the Pulse who again came so close but still could not secure their first win. However in true Pulse style and showing great resilience they will bounce back to tackle top of the table team Magic in Wellington next Saturday June 21.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Fever

09 June 2008

After enduring the long flight west and coming in a day earlier than normal all was set for a close encounter of the bottom of the table teams. Unfortunately what transpired ended in farcical proportions when the game was called off at half time due to a persistent leaky roof.

During the first quarter it was goal for goal netball. At one stage the Fever jumped out to a 4 goal lead then the Pulse closed the gap. Tall Fever goal shooter Caitlin Bassett was proving a handful for goal keeper Candyce Edwards in her first game for the Pulse. The first quarter score ended with Fever ahead 12-10.

In previous matches the Pulse have succumbed to the "first quarter blues", this time it was a case of the "second quarter blues" as the Fever were relentless in their endeavours to win this match. The Pulse had no answers. Fever Goal Attack Bianca Franklin played an outstanding quarter aided by a very quick and dominant mid court. The Pulse struggled to score notching up only 6 goals for the quarter. Coach Kate Carpenter made changes to the Pulse line-up bringing on Amber Billringer to GS and Lauren Burgess to WA but the Fever were just ruthless in scoring 21 goals for the quarter. At half time the scores were 33-16.

Throughout the first half the umpires were consistently calling time to mop up a persistent wet patch on the court which was caused by a leaking roof. Torrential rain during the day had caused the problem. During the half time break the leak worsened which prombpted the umpires to further postpone the half time break. Both teams headed for their respective changerooms whislt the umpires and the event management personnel debated re the outcome of the situation. After 45 minutes the decision was made to call off the match due to the dangerous condition of the court surface. Both teams were subsequently awarded one point.

Fever coach Sue Gaudion was furious as she could see the 2 points for what looked like a comfortable win going out the window. Pulse coach Kate Carpenter although pleased to gain the one point was philosophical about the result however extremely disappointed in the Pulse second quarter effort.

The Pulse now head back to Christchurch for their next encounter against the Tactixs still looking for that elusive win.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Steel

01 June 2008

From the first whistle it was an uphill battle for the Pulse who struggled to match the tenacity of the Southern Steel. Before the Pulse knew it the Steel had jumped out to a 6-0 lead and things where looking grim for the Pulse. But to their credit they fought back to level 6-6 with five minutes still remaining in the first quarter. By the end of the quarter it was a low scoring affair with Steel up 9-8.

It was a case of wasted opportunities for the Pulse in the second quarter. Having turned over the ball in a positive manner several times they found every way to lose it again. Amber Bellringer came into the goal shooter position half way through the quarter to try and instill some much needed movement but the Steel defence stood firm and denied the Pulse time after time. The half time score 21-13 to the Steel.

Coach Kate Carpenter made changes in the mid court bringing on Hayley Croft to the centre position and moving Frances Solia to the wing attack. The Pulse fought hard throughout the third quarter and picked up a lot of ball but once again fritted away vital opportunities. The quarter was even with both teams scoring only 8 goals. Scores at the end of the third quarter were 29-21 to the Steel. It was much the same for the fourth quarter. Susan Tagicakibau was re-introduced to the shooting circle but it was all too little too late for the Pulse. Final score 41-29 to the Steel.

The game never lived up to the pre-match hype and was a disappointing spectacle. Errors on both sides kept the scoring low. The Pulse now move onto Perth to take on the Fever in its next match. This is going to be a difficult assignment but one the Pulse girls must overcome if they are to register their first win.

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PULSE SUPPORTS FIGHT TO ELIMINATE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

27 May 2008

Women's Refuge is delighted the Suzuki Pulse Netball Team is taking a lead in the fight to eliminate domestic violence. The Pulse is joining force with Women’s Refuge and the Taskforce for Action on Family Violence's "It's NOT OK" Campaign. The team fully supports women and children being able to live free from violence and will be promoting that message to followers of the game.

The Chief Executive of the National Collective of Independent Women's Refuges, Heather Henare, says the involvement of such a strong group of young role models is extremely encouraging.

"I really want to congratulate both the Pulse players and the management for showing their commitment and realising they can play an active role in raising awareness about domestic violence and what can be done about it."

"They're demonstrating the kind of fair play everyone should see on the court, and that it shouldn't just stop there either."

"Whether it's on our streets, netball courts or in our homes, there is absolutely no place or excuse for violence."

The relationship between the Pulse, Women's Refuge and the "It's Not OK" Campaign is being launched at tonight's match between the Pulse and the Mystics in Wellington. For further information: Catherine Delore – Communications Adviser – 027-3224688

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Mystics

26 May 2008

Another one that got away from the Pulse. This was the result of game 7 for the Pulse as they went toe to toe with the Northern Mystics. A slow start saw the Pulse down 4-8 after only eight minutes. Finding it extremely hard to penetrate the tight Mystics defence line the Pulse attackers fought back to end the quarter 9-13 down.

In the second quarter the Pulse started to find their rythym in attack and with much better flow in their through court play were able to make some inroads to the score. Susan Tagicakibau was now finding great space close to the post to register a near flawless 10 from 11 shots. However the Mystics shooters shot without a miss with the half time score at 25-28 to the Mystics.

Coach Kate Carpenter elected to keep the team unchanged as the Pulse and Mystics traded goals throughout the quarter. With sheer determination and guts the Pulse pulled ahead by six goals during the quarter however squandered this advantage but remained three goals up by the end of the quarter 41-38.

Again so close but not close enough the inexperience of the Pulse showing through in the end in not being able to close out a win. It took six of the Mystic international players to be on court to secure the 54-48 win.

The team now looks forward to a re-match and a win against the Steel.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Tactixs

17 May 2008

It was the win that got away. Oh so close yet oh so far away. Once again the Pulse let success slip from their grasp when they went down to a spirited Tactixs 55-50. It was nail biting stuff from beginning to end as the Pulse fought tooth and nail to notch up their first win. Having conquered the "first quarter blues" the Pulse were right with the Tactixs with the first quarter scores 10-11 to the Tactixs. The defence of Sonia Mkoloma and Cushla Lichtwark was creating many scoring opportunities for both Jamilah Gupwell and Susan Tagicakibau.

Mid-way through the second quarter coach Kate Carpenter interchanged Amber Bellringer for Tagicakibau to try and create more movement in attack. This had the desired effect and by the third quarter scores were locked at 32 all. The young Pulse side forged ahead in the final quarter by 4 goals but squandered this match-winning lead only to see the Tactixs equalise in the dying seconds to force the match into overtime. After seven minutes of extra time the scores were still even at 48 a piece. Unfortunately the inexperience of the Pulse attack line was the telling factor in the end with the Tactixs running out winners 55-50. It was so disappointing for the Pulse who had done everything right except win the game.

However the disappointment will be put to one side as the Pulse now concentrate on securing that elusive win when they front up against the Mystics in Wellington on Monday 26 May.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Magic

10 May 2008

Game 5 saw the Magic get away to the perfect beginning outscoring the Pulse 18-4. Many of the Pulse players looked hesitant with their decision making and delivery. Coach Kate Carpenter having started the team in the same positions that finished the game against Swifts in such a positive manner was forced to make numerous positional changes at the first quarter. Only one player in Kahu Waititi came from the bench into the match with the remainder switching to different positions. This had a remarkable positive effect on the Pulse who outsocred the Magic 10-9 in the second quarter. This line-up then remained unchanged for the rest of the match going down in the third quarter by 4 then drawing the last quarter.

A feature of the match was the high shooting accuracey from both goal shooters with Irene van Dyk (Magic) 40/41 at 97.5% and Susan Tagicakibau (Pulse) 18-20 at 90%. A feature of the Pulse play was there tireless one on one marking particularly from wing defence Cushla Lichtwark who was awarded the Pulse player of the match.

The Pulse will draw confidence from these last three quarters and now look forward to recording their first win when they meet the Tactixs at home in Palmerston North on Saturday 17th May.

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Skins™ Aid Netball's Elite

06 May 2008

The Suzuki Pulse Netball team will be able to train harder, play longer and recover faster with the signing of a new three-year partnership agreement between the Suzuki Pulse and Skins™, New Zealand (Brandex Ltd).

The partnership will see the Suzuki Pulse squad provided with “Skins™ for Women” to meet their individual training, performance and recovery needs.

Brandex Ltd's General Manager David Watt sees this as ideal time to be getting behind Netball within New Zealand with the launch of the new ANZ Championship. The Suzuki Pulse represent the central part of the country covering four netball regions; Eastern, Western, Wellington and Tasman.

By wearing Skins™ during training and recovery the Suzuki Pulse will have an edge over their opponents. Independent testing of elite athletes has proven Skins™ can reduce build-up of lactic acid by up to 37% immediately after sustained exercise. This in turn means less soreness and a faster recovery.

The Suzuki Pulse's are currently on the road in Australia and then Hamilton, with the next home game in Palmerston North on the 17th May, where they play the Skope Canterbury Tactix. Then they are back in Wellington on the 26th May against the LG Northern Mystics.

“With frequent travel and their intensive training commitments the skins partnership fits perfectly for the Suzuki Pulse. Their garments are ideal for our players, aiding them in their performance and recovery,” says CEO Kris Mayo.

Skins will be known as the Official Supplier of Compression and Therapeutic wear of the Suzuki Pulse. All Wellington match tickets can be purchased through Ticketek. Tickets for matches in Palmerston North and Napier are available now through Ticket Direct.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. NSW Swifts

28 April 2008

It was almost dejavu for the Pulse as they began against the NSW Swifts in game 4 of the ANZ Championships. The Swifts began with a strong and determined effort and litterally took the game right out of the hands of the Pulse in the first quarter. The 18-5 scoreline told the story. After an error riddled first quarter Jimmilah Gupwell was substituted from the court with Amber Bellringer. It was a matter of seeing how long Amber would last as she had been ill the entire week in Australia and had only completed a full training run the same day as the match.

Catherine Cox was proving to be a handfull for Kahu Waititi having shot 21 from 25 in the first half. At half time Sonia Mokloma was moved to GK with Cusha Litchwark at GD. Lauren Berger came into the match at WD. The Pulse looked timid and unable to handle the tight one on one marking by the Swifts. Time after time balls were not released causing far too many held balls and bad throws.

Swifts made changes to their line up at half time but this made no change to their fast accurate play. Unfortunately for the Pulse Amber was unable to continue after the third quarter so Jimmilah was brought back into the game. The match was almost a carbon copy of the Firebirds match the previous week. The score at the end was 59-30.

The road trip has proved a very difficult one for the Pulse girls with illness and injury. They have experienced heavy defeats at the hands of two very good teams. However they will learn from it and move onto the Magic game in Hamilton with renewed hope that they can turn around the lost form of the past two weeks.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Queensland Firebirds

21 April 2008

Game three of the ANZ Championships saw the Pulse on their first away game against the strong Queensland Firebirds. After a very early morning departure out of Wellington the Pulse players settled into the Brisbane environment enjoying the warmer weather which Brisbane had to offer.

The Pulse began the game in tentative fashion finding it extremely difficult to penetrate the tight one on one marking from the Firebirds. Too many missed chances cost the Pulse early which the Firebirds capitalised on through the ever accurate goal shooter Romelda Aitken. Still tentative and unsure the Pulse flitted away too many oppoortunities into the second quarter and were struggling to move the ball into the goal third and to the shooters. At half time the score saw the Pulse 31-15 down. Coach Kate Carpenter tried to instill some movement into the Pulse's game be bringing on Hayley Crofts to the Centre position. Unfortunately Goal Shooter Amber Bellringer had succumed to a virus and by three quarter time needed to be substituted from the court.

The game was not a happy one for the Pulse but it was one from which they have learnt first hand how tough and strong the Aussie teams are going to be in Australia. Goal Defender Sonia Mokloma sustained a mild concussion during the match after receiving an elbow to the jaw. It was a disappointing end which saw the final score line at 56-28. After a thorough debrief the Pulse are moving forward to a better outcome against the NSW Swifts.

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Suzuki Pulse vs. Southern Steel thriller

14 April 2008

The second round of the ANZ Championships would prove to be a bitter sweet result for the Pulse girls who were pitted against the more fancied Southern Steel. Many assumed the Pulse would be overcome by the powerful and experienced Steel line-up. How wrong this outlook proved to be. The fans were treated to a hard fought and dynamic contest which needed overtime to decide a winner.

Once again the Pulse started slowly in the first quarter trailing by five goals before moving into second gear and taking the game right up to the Steel. First quarter scores 12-7 to the Steel. With Jamilah Gupwell, Frances Solia and Cushla Lichtwark all contributing outstanding performances for the Pulse they managed to outscored the Steel 12-9 in the second quarter to only be trailing 19-21 at half time. The low scoring attributed to the tough defensive efforts of both sides.

The third quarter was an even affair with each team scoring ten goals. A highlight of the match was the contest between the experienced Steel goal keeper Megan Hutton and the raw talent of Pulse goal shooter Amber Bellringer. Honours were somewhat even at the end of the match.

A torrid last quarter saw both teams fighting to gain the upper hand. With three minutes to goal it looked like the Pulse would cause the upset when they were leading by three goals but slowly and surely the experienced Steel pegged back the deficit. With seconds remaining and with scores locked at 40-40 the Pulse had the opportunity to seal the win but were denied the chance as the ever present Steel defence line took the game into overtime.

Two seven minute periods were then played. Scores seesawed back and forth. Players were calling on inner strength in order to gain the upper hand. Unfortunately for the Pulse at the end of the second seven minutes they were two goals behind 52-50 which meant having to suffer a defeat which minutes earlier could have so easily have been a wonderful win.

Emotions were varied with players devastated, angry and upset at the one that got away. However all the Pulse players and mangement should feel proud of the performance knowing that they are up there with the best of them and a win is only just around the corner.

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Get behind the Suzuki Pulse and you could get a Team Suzuki Swift!

20 March 2008

To be in the running, simply hold onto your ticket stub from any Suzuki Pulse ANZ Championship game. Then head to your local Suzuki dealer for a test drive that’s sure to get your pulse racing! Fill in the on-site entry form, place it in the entry box along with your ticket stub... and you’re in the draw to win. Good luck!

If you haven’t already bought your tickets, click here.

Terms and Conditions
Employees of Suzuki New Zealand or their agencies and their immediate families are ineligible to enter. To enter the prize draw, entrants must have a valid drivers license, complete a Suzuki test drive, submit a fully completed official entry form together with a Suzuki Pulse home game ticket stub and place it in the entry box at the Suzuki dealership on completion of the test drive. Only one entry per person. Prize draw runs for the duration of the ANZ Championship Netball Series.

The prize is an actual Team Suzuki Swift used by one of the Suzuki Pulse players for the season and is a Black LTD Auto Suzuki Swift. The prize draw will take place at Suzuki Pulse HQ in Wellington at the end of August 2008. The winner will be notified by phone and arrangements made for delivery within 10 days of the draw. The judges decision is final and correspondence will not be entered into. Suzuki New Zealand will not accept any responsibility for late, lost or misdirected entries. Acceptance of the prize is consent that your photo and/or name may be used for promotional purposes. Suzuki New Zealand Ltd reserves the right to change these rules at any time.

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Wellington Season Tickets On Sale

29 February 2008

Come and support the Suzuki Pulse as they take on the best netballers in the world in the inaugural ANZ Championship! The Suzuki Pulse will play four games in Wellington this year. Season tickets will be available for purchase between 28 February and 7 March. Individual match tickets will go on sale on Friday 7 March.

Purchase your season tickets now to ensure you get a great seat for all four matches. Season tickets will still be available until 5 April, but after 7 March you cannot be guaranteed to get the same seat for all four matches.

Gates open one hour before each match so get in early to be part of the fun and entertainment!

Visit the tickets page for full ticket purchasing info.

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Suzuki Pulse Line-Up Future Focused

4 February 2008

Future talent continues to be the theme associated with the Suzuki Pulse ANZ Championship netball team with the naming of the 12-member squad today.

When Coach, Kate Carpenter, officially released her squad she remained adamant that the 12 players formed a team in line with the overall franchise philosophy of being very much future focused.

The team comprises of six players who have represented New Zealand at secondary school, age-group and NZA level. There are three international players and ten players have been members of former National Bank Cup teams.

The team anchors will be the highly rated English defender Sonia Mkoloma and the versatile mid-court leader, Samoan captain Frances Solia. The shooting circle will also boast an international, with Susan Tagicakibau having played for Fiji.

Those players having represented New Zealand at age-group and secondary school levels are Susan Tagicakibau (Auckland), Jamilah Gupwell (Wellington), Nardia Roselli (Tasman), Hayley Crofts (Southland), Lauren Burgess (Western), and Candyce Edwards (Waikato).

The balance of the Suzuki Pulse includes Amber Bellringer (Western), Kahurangi Waititi (Waikato), Cushla Lichtwark (Wellington), and Neesha Wieser (Wellington).

Carpenter has had the bulk of the team together for the past three weeks while Mkoloma will join the side in early March once she completes her English commitments.

The former Singapore national coach said she had worked closely with her assistant Annette Pearce and the Suzuki Pulse Director of Coaching Jill McIntosh to finalise the team selection.

"We all know that this team has a lot of hard work ahead, but that is elite sport and that is what motivates us. This is not just the belief of the Suzuki Pulse coaching staff, but the entire team,” said Carpenter.

From the team’s geographic region, which encompasses Taranaki in the West, Eastland and Hawke’s Bay in the East, through Palmerston North, Wellington and Tasman in the South, comes seven of the 12 players.

The complete squad is: Susan Tagicakibau, Jamilah Gupwell, Nardia Roselli, Amber Bellringer, Frances Solia, Hayley Crofts, Lauren Burgess, Neesha Wieser, Cushla Lichtwark, Sonia Mkoloma, Candyce Edwards, Kahurangi Waititi.

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Suzuki Sets The Pulse Racing

30 January 2008

Central Region’s ANZ Championship netball team Pulse, has a major sponsor and supporter in Suzuki New Zealand.

Suzuki New Zealand Marketing Manager Tom Peck, announced today that his company will be the Pulse naming rights sponsor.

As the new trans-tasman netball competition draws nearer, the agreement with Suzuki is a major step forward for the new franchise team. Suzuki Pulse chairman John Freer said he saw the partnership providing numerous opportunities for both parties.

With the agreement comes a high profile marketing strategy which will encompass 10 specially branded Suzuki vehicles which it is proposed to be seen across the wider Suzuki Pulse territory of Central New Zealand.

Mr Peck said Suzuki had a number of high profile and successful associations with sports organisations and people and to be involved in the new ANZ Championship was a special opportunity.

“Being able to support New Zealand’s leading female sport across not just the central region, but all New Zealand is important to Suzuki as a large percentage of our clients are women.

“Also very important to us is the nature of this new netball competition which we believe will be exciting and dynamic – and we want to be associated with it,” said Mr Peck.

Mr Freer said the success of the Suzuki Pulse would be determined by not just what happens on the court, but also the entire infrastructure and business associated with running a franchise team.

“Our discussions with Suzuki have been stimulating in that the company understands the dynamics of both successful business and successful sport, so as is very much the case with everything we are doing, we will be tapping into Suzuki’s areas of expertise.

“Suzuki has many partners across both our region and the country as a whole – in their dealer networks and clients, and we believe these relationships will provide wonderful opportunities for the Suzuki Pulse and the wider netball community,” said Mr Freer.

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Suzuki Pulse Appoints Chief Executive

29 January 2008

Kristine Mayo has been appointed CEO of the Suzuki Pulse netball franchise for the ANZ Championship. The appointment completes the staffing line-up for the franchise for the coming championship with the opening game in Wellington on April 5.

With the appointment of Mayo, the franchise has a full staff in both the business and operational areas. This includes the appointment of the team manager, team strength and conditioner along with the medical support staff.

The team manager is Dani Delamere while Jamie Tout is the team strength and conditioner.

Mayo comes to the Suzuki Pulse following a 13-year career history with New Zealand Post. The NZ Post career provided Mayo with a comprehensive grounding in all aspects of business and marketing.

Suzuki Pulse chairman John Freer said to have a person with the experience and caliber of Kris Mayo was critical in driving the future success of the team and franchise. “Kris has shown a particular strength in understanding consumers, their drivers and the power of iconic brands.”

“We obviously want the Suzuki Pulse to become one of those iconic sporting brands sitting alongside the likes of the Hurricanes and the Phoenix” said Freer.

Mayo has a distinguished career in sport having represented New Zealand in Rhythmic Gymnastics, coached gymnastics and judged at competition such as the 1999 World Championships and the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games.

She describes herself as being passionate about sport and the role it plays in our communities. She believes the ANZ Championship is an exciting development for netball and women’s sport in New Zealand.

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Pulse on trial

07 December 2007

Twenty two elite netballers are set to converge on the TSB Bank Arena this weekend as they trial for a place in the Pulse.

The ANZ Championship is due to commence in just four months. Excitement over the new competition is quickly building momentum in the Central Region, with the Pulse coaching team now beginning to identify their lineup for the inaugural season.

The trialists include seven players from the Wellington Region, two from Tasman, six from Western Region and one from Eastern. Six players from outside the Central Region have also been invited to trial for the team.

Trialists will be vying for a handful of key positions within the team, as Head Coach, Kate Carpenter, explains. “We are looking to select about six key players from the trials. We are also in discussions with several other players who won’t be attending this weekend.”

While many franchises will look to name extended squads after their trials, Carpenter plans to select her final team of 12 players as soon as player negotiations are concluded.

“It’s important that players go into the Christmas break knowing where they stand for 2008,” Carpenter said. “We’re confident that we have some great players in our mix.”

Training partners will also be identified from the group of trialists. These players will train with the Pulse when required and will form part of the development programme for the region.

Carpenter will be joined by Assistant Coach, Annette Pearce, and Pulse Director of Coaching, Jill McIntosh, in selecting her team.

The trials are being held at TSB Bank Arena from 11am – 5pm on Saturday and 10am – 4pm on Sunday. All sessions are open for public viewing.

The full list of Pulse trialists is: Amber Bellringer, Alanah Cassidy, Lauren Burgess, Abbie Bailey-Nowell, Jodi Hikuroa, Katarina Cooper, Candis Cardie, Nardia Roselli, Jaimee Power, Cushla Lichtwark, Frances Solia, Jaimee Sorenson, Katie King, Ngarama Milner, Stacey McFeeters, Neesha Weiser, Areta Thatcher, Emma Iverson, Hayley Crofts, Amanda Palmer, Susan Tangikakibau, Louise Moffat.

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Pulse First Signing

22 November 2007

The Pulse netball franchise today announced the signing of high profile England Defender Sonia Mkoloma. In making the announcement, project manager Larry Graham said “We are very pleased that Sonia has agreed to play for our new franchise. She is one of the World’s top defenders and will be a huge asset to our team. Being able to bring a player of such standing to the greater central region can only be of benefit to the game of netball in the region.”

Chairman of the Pulse, John Freer, said the Franchise Board wanted to ensure that they were able to field a team that would make its mark in the new ANZ Championship. “We are thrilled that Sonia is coming to Wellington and she will be one of the keys to the Pulse being able to put a competitive and exciting team on the court in the new competition. Sonia brings enormous experience to the team, which will also complement any younger players and assist with their development.”

Pulse Coach, Kate Carpenter, said the Coaching Team are also delighted at Sonia’s signing. “Anyone who watched Sonia at the recent World Championships will see that she is one of the most difficult defenders to shoot over – she’s very rangy and can get to a huge amount of ball. Her ability makes her a player you would definitely rather play with than against.”

Carpenter is due to arrive in Wellington at the beginning of December and she has scheduled trials for 8 and 9 December and expects to announce her team shortly thereafter.

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Now is the time to check “The Pulse”

08 November 2007

Central Region’s ANZ Championship team is to be known as The Pulse.

The brand has been released today as the Central Region netball franchise continues its build-up to next year’s trans-Tasman netball championship.

“This franchise will be hungry, spirited and youthful,” said Chairman John Freer, in announcing the name and releasing the brand.

Mr Freer said “Utilising the professional skills and experience of design experts, Capiche, we were able to create a brand that delivers a real sense of belonging to something powerful.

“Our franchise region has the largest catchment area for netball players in New Zealand and we are delighted to announce our name and launch a brand that will continue the great tradition of our communities getting behind our sport in central New Zealand.”

The Pulse netball franchise is one of 10 teams that will compete in the new trans-Tasman netball competition and is the first New Zealand based Franchise to announce its name. The ANZ Championship will commence in April 2008, as five New Zealand teams and five Australian teams battle for netball supremacy.

The Pulse has a formidable coaching line-up, with the experience of renowned international coach, Jill McIntosh working with Head Coach and current Singapore Coach, Kate Carpenter, and former Flyers Coach and New Zealand A Assistant Coach, Annette Pearce.

The Central Franchise encompasses four regions including Eastern and Western Netball, Wellington Region and Netball Tasman and has the largest catchment area for players in New Zealand with 38,000 netball players from Gisborne to New Plymouth in the North Island and Buller across to Kaikoura in the South Island.

In total, there are 50,000 people directly involved with the sport across the franchise region, including players, officials, coaches, administrators, volunteers.

Mr Freer said the name and brand was an important aspect of the overall team development having to capture the values and ambitions of those people involved with the team as players, coaches, administrators and supporters.

“We are attempting to create something unique for netball across our wide region and therefore we wanted a unique and powerful brand – we believe we have achieved that,” said Mr Freer.

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Central Netball Coaching Staff Grows

11 October 2007

Annette Pearce, the current New Zealand ‘A’ assistant coach and elite coach of Netball New Zealand’s High Performance Programme, has been appointed Assistant Coach for the new Central Region Netball team.

Pearce will compliment Kate Carpenter who last month was appointed Head Coach.

Chairman of the Central Franchise, John Freer, said today that the Board of Directors is very pleased with the selection of the final coaching staff. He maintained the pair, along with Jill McIntosh as the Central Region Coaching Director, will make a formidable coaching team.

Freer goes on to say that Pearce has enormous respect throughout netball both as a player and lately as a coach and her experience with the Flyers and the New Zealand netball team will be a great asset for the new Central ANZ Championship team.

“Annette has spent considerable time with the development of video technology and working with younger players – who we believe are the future of the game and very much our targets.”

The franchise is planning the first round of trials in December and the trio are expected to be together in New Zealand for these. Freer maintained the combination of Australian and New Zealand coaching experience seemed a smart move for the large Central Region Franchise.

The ANZ Trans Tasman Netball Championships gets underway in April 2008. The respective franchises, five from New Zealand and five from Australia, are now going through the process of player procurement and seeking corporate partnerships.

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Team Coach position to be advertised

26 June 2007

The new Central Region Tasman Trophy Netball Franchise will this weekend be advertising the Team Coach position.

An extensive campaign will be conducted which includes newspaper and internet advertising across New Zealand.

Spokesman for the Franchise John Freer, said the Team Coach role was a fulltime senior position in the yet to be named Franchise.

In the first instance the Franchise interim board, which consists of representatives from the Tasman, Wellington, Eastern and Western Netball Regions, is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified netball coaches.

Potential team coaches have two weeks to advise of their interest in the position.

Mr Freer said the primary focus of the role would be developing and coaching a successful team in the new semi-professional Tasman Trophy competition. He said the importance of the role was reflected in that it is fulltime and the coach would be a senior member of the Franchise management team.

“As we look to develop the team obviously the coach is an integral part of this and therefore the appointment of a coach is a significant aspect of the Franchise development,” said Mr Freer.

Besides being the Team Coach Mr Freer said the successful individual would have a further role across the wider Franchise Region, this being in line with the wider aim of the Franchise of assisting in the overall regional netball pathway development.