New Zealand’s Beloved Netball Coach Dies at 80

Robyn Broughton, one of the highly regarded netball coaches, passed away at 80. The legendary coach was a huge figure in Women’s Netball. Robyn coached New Zealand’s netball team and took them to great heights. She had a huge impact on players’ lives and tried to improve their game. She was a coach, Net Ball New Life Member, Silver Ferns assistant coach, and also a mentor to high-performance coaches in New Zealand. The coaches who trained under Robyn are now a part of the New Zealand high-performance system.

Robyn Broughton was born and raised in Lower Hutt. She established herself as a top net ball player in the country and gained a lot of reputation. Impressed by her performance, she got selected in the New Zealand team. Although, she became the first nontravelling reserve player in the year 1960, Robyn had other plans. Broughton headed south to the University of Otago in 1961 for a diploma in Physical Education. The entire New Zealand net ball community is mourning this immense loss.

Robyn Broughton and her many achievements

During her playing days, Robyn represented Hutt Valley, Otago and Southland. She captained Otago and Southland in her last two seasons. An exceptional player who showed her skill on the field turned out to become a fantastic coach as well. Broughton’s first led the Invercargill based on Southern Sting and helped them win seven titles in 10 years. She managed them from 1998 to 2007. However, in 2008, after the introduction of the Trans Tasman league, Robyn stayed as a coach for the next two years for the newly established Southern Steels. After 2011, Robyn then moved to coach the Central Pulse. Robyn had a three-year stint there from 2012 to 2015. Not only club success, Robyn also managed teams internationally as well.

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She helped New Zealand win the World’s Fastnet Title in 2010. “Robyn Broughton was an incredible woman that gave a huge amount to our game, the most successful domestic coach in our history, winning seven titles in the National Bank Cup,” a Netball New Zealand statement said.

Forever in our hearts

The death of Robyn Broughton will be tough to get over. Although time heals everything, this loss will stay in the minds of the New Zealand people for a very long time. A woman with this much ability and contribution will be tough to replace. Netball will never be the same again after Robyn Broughton’ death. The game will eventually move on, but we will never forget Robyn’s contribution..