Building Better Players - Shaping Stronger People
(The Navigate Netball Academy logo derives from the polynesian frigit bird; representing guidance and journey to a destination)
Navigate Netball Academy is proud to launch in Taranaki, bringing world-class coaching and a values-driven development program to the regions young netballers.
Whether you're aspiring to reach representative levels or simply want to grow your game, Navigate is here to guide your journey - on and off the court.
At the helm is, Jaqua Pori-Makea-Simpson, an internationally recognised Head Coach with a proven track record of success at the highest level of sport. Under her leadership, Tonga's national team made history by qualifying for the 2023 Netball World Cup for the first time and reaching the quarter finals. Tonga is the highest ranked Pacific team and have won Pacific Games Gold and a record high, 4 consecutive Pacific Aus Series Gold Medals; achieving their highest ever world ranking of 7th. Her coaching style combines elite technical knowledge with a deep commitment to athlete wellbeing, personal development, and community connection.
With over 20 years' experience in high-level program management across the sport and recreation sector, she brings a wealth of knowledge in athlete development, competition structures, and building strong sporting cultures. Jaqua has an extensive coaching history in Australia, NZ and the Pacific and is a recognised NSW Coach of the Year, Sport Taranaki Coach of the Year and has earned several coaching accolades, her background includes everything from grassroots clubs to national programs.
Navigate is more than just an academy - it's a pathway. We develop skilled, and resilient players who understand what it takes to excel, not just in sport, but in life.