Manapori given opportunity for growth as new Stars mens coach

The Robinhood Stars have named men's netball stalwart Junior Manapori as the new coach of the Stars men's invitational team for matches against the Mystics men on the 6th and 21st of May.

Michelle Tupper will support Manapori as assistant coach, with Lisa Ransom the team manager.

Manapori is a respected figure in the men's game, representing New Zealand and featuring as a player for the Stars men in their games against the Mystics men during the 2022 and 2021 ANZ Premiership seasons.

Manapori is currently assistant coach of the Stars' National Netball League team the Comets.

Stars General Manager Jane Bennett is looking forward to having the Stars men take to the court for the third successive year.

"We're excited to support increased visibility of the men's game and it has provided an opportunity for internal development with Junior being the Comets assistant coach." Bennett said.

Manapori is enjoying the challenge of swapping the bib for the whiteboard.

“From a player perspective I’ve got to see first hand what that looks like. Understanding what goes on behind the scenes as a coach with planning for training and games has been quite new for me this year and having the experience as an assistant coach with the Comets team has been very useful.” Manapori said. 

Manapori believes in order to get results on the court, it's important to have a greater understanding of players off it.

“One of the mantras we have at the Comets which I’d like to see at our team as well is that nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care. For me that mindset will help me mould players, knowing that it’s important to care for them and where they come from and being able to use netball as a vehicle to support them in something they’re passionate about.” Manapori explained.

Manapori has deep ties to South Auckland and being able to continue representing the community in a different role is special for him. 

“I’m fortunate that I’m born and bred from South Auckland, so this is very personal and important to me because this is my home. Its a huge honour and privilege to be able to be a role model to young rangatahi and men and be able to share and acknowledge the sacrifices they’ve made and be an example for those who want to play the sport.”