The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and Netball Australia this month announced the appointment of Australian Diamonds Assistant Coach Julie Fitzgerald as head coach of its renowned netball program.

Fitzgerald was appointed inaugural coach of the Sydney Swifts in 1997, leading them to four Commonwealth Bank Trophy title victories (2001, 2004 and 2006–07). Under her guidance the NSW Swifts went onto to win the inaugural Trans Tasman Netball League in 2008 and Fitzgerald continued at the helm until the end of the 2011 season.

Her standing as one of the country’s best coaches was highlighted in 2004 and 2006 and again in 2007 and 2008, when she was named Netball Australia’s Coach of the Year.

With an intimate knowledge of Australia’s elite netball pathways, Fitzgerald is well-qualified for the position of Head Coach.

‘Julie is a quality coach who brings a wealth of experience to the role with an in-depth understanding of what it takes to develop world class netballers,’ Acting AIS Director Michael McGovern said.

 ‘Julie’s appointment continues the cooperative arrangement between the AIS and Netball Australia, which sees the AIS as Netball Australia’s national training centre.’

Netball Australia CEO Kate Palmer welcomed the appointment.

‘Julie’s ability to develop young athletes and ensure the next crop of Australian Netball Diamonds is prepared for success is well-recognised,’ Palmer said.

‘She has the ability to add enormous value to the national high performance plan. Her strong networks and people skills will assist in bringing all stakeholders on board.’

The Australian Government is a strong supporter of netball, providing more than $3 million in annual funding to support its development at the elite and grassroots levels.