SEVERN Stars are on the hunt for a new head coach ahead of the 2018 Vitality Netball Superleague following Mo’onia Gerrard’s decision to step down from the role.
Gerrard, who steered the University of Worcester Arena-based franchise to five wins from 18 games in their debut Superleague campaign, made the decision so she could commit more time to her young family.
The Australia international will remain part of the team set-up as a technical coach, however, and will come in to give players the benefit of her defensive expertise at various points throughout the next campaign.
“I’ve loved being a part of Severn Stars’ inaugural season in the Vitality Netball Superleague,” said Gerrard.
“I feel the club has made great progress in a short period of time and I’m excited to see the success of the club as it moves forward.
“Although I’ll be stepping aside as head coach to spend more time with my family, I’ll be staying involved in a different capacity and will contribute towards the growth of the club.
“Thanks to all the fans for their support in our first year and I look forward to seeing everybody in the new season.”
Stars finished eighth after wins against Surrey Storm, Team Northumbria, Sirens and a double over Celtic Dragons, and director of netball Pamela Cookey will be hoping to build on those positives next season.
“Mo’onia has been a key part of our journey and has had a great impact on the players,” said Cookey.
“Though we’ll be losing her in the head coach role, Mo’onia will still be involved in the team’s development as a technical coach throughout next season.
“I would like to thank Mo’onia on behalf of all at Severn Stars for everything she has done for the team in this capacity, and know the ethos and team spirit she has fostered will continue into the next campaign.
“We’ll be looking to recruit a new head coach as quickly as possible to take the team forward and build on the base Mo’onia has laid down.”