Briony Akle, the head coach of the NSW Swifts' Super Netball team, has landed a new coaching role for the upcoming international campaigns.
Announced on Tuesday, Akle will join the New Zealand Silver Ferns as a specialist coach focusing on attack and will work alongside Dame Noeline Taurua (head coach) and Debbie Fuller (assistant coach).
Akle's appointment adds a wealth of experience to the team having guided the NSW Swifts - a team she is signed to until the end of the 2026 season - to two titles in 2019 and 2021 and three league Grand Final appearances.
“I travelled to the UK with the Ferns early this year it was an amazing experience to be a part of such a respected and successful international environment,” Akle said.
“Noeline is one of the greatest coaches to have ever been involved with our game and it will be a privilege to continue learning from her, and from Debbie too.
“As a coach I am a firm believer that the sharing of ideas and philosophies will always put you on the right path to success because it increases critical thinking by broadening your view of the game.
“There are some really massive international netball games coming up and I cannot wait to be a part of them.”
Previously working with the Silver Ferns at the Nations Cup in England in January, Akle will be a part of the coaching staff starting with the Taini Jamison Trophy against England and the Constellation Cup against Australia in October.
“We've worked with Briony earlier this year, so she already has an insight into our High-Performance environment with the Silver Ferns," Netball NZ Head of High-Performance Stephen Hotter added.
"She brings another eye to our programme and has a strong vision for elite athletes in the game."