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Sport Nation
Netball New Zealand names interim chief executive and Silver Ferns performance lead
Sport Nation • January 15th, 2026 11:28 am
Interim Chief Executive Jane Patterson | Photo: Supplied
Netball New Zealand has confirmed two major leadership appointments, with Jane Patterson named Interim Chief Executive and Chelsea Lane appointed Head of Performance for the Silver Ferns.
Patterson starts the interim role on Monday 19 January following Jennie Wyllie’s decision to step down in December 2025.
She brings more than 30 years of experience across sport and major events, including senior roles at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, IRONMAN Asia Pacific and as CEO of the Netball World Cup 2007.
Most recently, she served as Interim CEO of Badminton New Zealand and has been recognised with MNZM and ONZM honours.
“Since first playing netball at the age of seven, I’ve carried a deep respect for the game and its proud place in New Zealand sport,” Patterson said.
Lane joins Netball New Zealand with more than 20 years of high performance experience across elite sport.
Her background includes senior roles with NBA franchises, including the Atlanta Hawks and Golden State Warriors, as well as work with NZ Cricket and Basketball New Zealand.
Silver Ferns head coach Dame Noeline Taurua said Lane’s ability to align performance, people and culture would be invaluable as the programme prepares for a key year ahead, including the Commonwealth Games in July.
