Paterson to lead Mystics franchise - November 29, 2011
Julie Paterson has resigned as chief executive of Netball Southland and the Southern Steel franchise.
After six years in the joint role, Paterson has accepted a position at the helm of the LG Mystics next year.
“Both the job itself and the shift to Auckland is an incredibly exciting opportunity for me and my family,” she said.
“Working in the world of elite sport provides many professional challenges and this is a chance to be immersed in an environment which is home to some of New Zealand’s leading sporting codes which will enable me to develop my skills even further.
“The Mystics are an incredibly successful franchise, both on and off the court, and I’ll certainly be striving to ensure that continues.”
Paterson will take up her new role at the Mystics in January.
“Obviously the decision to leave the Steel and Netball Southland was an extremely difficult one, especially as both organisations are embarking on such an exciting new direction. But I’m confident the next stage in their respective futures will bring the continued high level of success our community has come to expect.”
Netball Southland chairperson Debbie Hodges said Paterson had been an asset to the organisation.
“She’s given us her all over the past six years, worked extremely hard for the benefit of all levels of our sport and we will certainly miss working with her,” she said.
“The process of appointing a suitable replacement now begins but I’m confident the structures and personnel we have in place at Netball Southland will ensure a smooth transition and the uninterrupted delivery of our programmes.”
Southern TeamCo chairperson Janet Copeland echoed her comments.
“We are sad to see Julie go but wish her all the best for the future. She has played an integral role in the initial development and implementation of the Steel franchise over the past four seasons and her leadership will be missed,” she said.
Greater Auckland Netball Limited chairman Tom Nickels said Paterson replaces the Mystics’ foundation CEO Mark Cameron, who was recruited by Auckland Cricket.
“Julie was the stand out individual from an overwhelming number of exceptionally well qualified candidates who had applied for the role,” he said.
“The Southern Steel has a long history of successful competition at the highest levels of New Zealand netball under her management.”
The Mystics contested the ANZ Championship grand final earlier this year.
“We are looking forward to the 2012 season with confidence and to providing our sponsors and stakeholders with an even better result than last year,” Nickels said.
