Netball Northern is proud to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding service of individuals whose dedication and leadership continue to strengthen netball across our communities. The Netball Northern Zone Service Awards and Netball New Zealand Service Awards and recognise those who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the netball, both on and off the court.
Anita Coy‑Macken
Netball Northern Zone recognises Anita Coy‑Macken for her long‑standing and invaluable contribution to regional facilities planning. Anita joined the Regional Facilities Working Group (RFWG) in December 2015 and remains serving on the working group in 2026.
Across more than a decade, Anita has contributed significant time and professional expertise, playing a key role in shaping the Auckland Regional Facilities Priorities Plan, refreshed and delivered in May 2024. Her ability to navigate complex and challenging conversations, always with netball at the heart of decision‑making, has proven invaluable time and again.
Netball Northern thanks Anita for her commitment and leadership in ensuring facilities planning supports the long‑term sustainability of the sport.
Sue Brewster
Sue Brewster is acknowledged for nine years of dedicated service on the Netball Northern Zone Board, where she made a lasting impact through her leadership and governance expertise. During her tenure, Sue chaired the Funding Committee for seven years, bringing clarity, energy, and strong strategic focus to this critical area.
Sue was also deeply committed to supporting others, providing mentoring and guidance to new board members and investing genuine time in building strong board capability. As Deputy Chair, Sue offered thoughtful support, constructive challenge, and valuable insight to the CEO and around the Board table.
Netball Northern sincerely thanks Sue for her exceptional contribution to our sport and congratulates her on receiving a Netball Northern Zone Service Award.
NNZ Service Awards (Excerpts from Netball New Zealand)
Dianne Lasenby
With more than two decades of service to netball, Dianne Lasenby has been a driving force behind the scenes, combining strong business expertise with a lifelong passion for the game. Over 20 years, Dianne has contributed across multiple roles, building a depth of knowledge and hands‑on experience that has influenced netball at every level.
In 2017, Dianne was appointed General Manager of the Northern Stars, following the formation of the new entity—a role that reflects her broad skillset and deep understanding of the sport from grassroots participation through to high performance. Widely recognised as a collaborative and highly capable leader, Dianne has contributed to numerous projects and working groups across netball. Throughout her career, she has never lost sight of the importance of strong local communities and their role in the success of the game.
Zak Middleton
Zak Middleton began his umpiring journey in 2011 and has since become a highly respected figure in officiating, development, and high‑performance pathways. While Zak has officiated at the game’s highest levels, his contribution extends well beyond match day.
Zak has played a key role in coaching, assessing, facilitating workshops, and delivering fitness testing, demonstrating a strong commitment to developing the next generation of umpires. His passion for growth and excellence has also seen him contribute nationally and internationally through Netball NZ’s High Performance and international umpiring programmes.
Zak has represented New Zealand on the world stage at events including the Fast5 World Series, Pacific Games, World Youth Cup Regional Qualifiers, and the World Youth Cup. His officiating résumé includes elite competitions such as the ANZ Premiership, National Netball League, Trans‑Tasman Cup, and international championships in Australia—an outstanding reflection of his dedication and expertise.
