Newly-appointed coach Melissa Walker is eager to return to Fiji to begin development work and rebuild Netball’s image.
Walker, who is currently in New Zealand after a one-month stint in Fiji, signed a three-year contract with Netball Fiji last month and is looking forward to moving back to Fiji at the end of the month.
“I like everything about the contract, actually it is one of the best contracts I have ever signed,” Walker said.
“The biggest thing I like about it is that they have taken into consideration my children and me moving to a brand new country.
“I have the total admiration for Netball Fiji and the way they have treated me and always given me all the information from the very beginning - this is going to be a wonderful three years for me and I can’t wait.”
While the selection of the Under-21 and national side for the international tour has been a concern, she confirmed that the selection door was always open and any player found to be impressive would be drafted into the side.
“I’m all about development but also the coach, I’m always looking for talent because we need to get our players out there so everyone can see Fiji in action,” Walker said.
“I want to create a pathway and with the World Cup just around the corner we need to have the best that Fiji has to offer so I will always be looking.
“This is something that any national and Under-21 team will learn quickly with me.”
The former NPC coach has also sent a stern warning to the current Under-21 and national squad.
“If you train hard and put total dedication and commitment into the team training and fitness, I will take you places, but if you think that you will drift with the teams for a holiday then you will be replaced,” Walker said.
“To represent your country is an honour and a privilege and I’m very honoured and privileged to be the coach of Fiji so if I give my 200 per cent then I expect the same.”
Walker, who is expected to arrive on October 31, will miss the final showdown of the MH Netball series next Saturday.
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