World Netball Board Director, Ann Tod, has been made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for her work in governance and finance.
Ann sits on the World Netball Board as the Finance Director, a role which she has had since 2011; In addition she has over 20 years’ experience at the grassroots level of netball.
One of New Zealand’s most successful coaches, Ruth Aitken, was also named in the Queen’s Honours list as she was awarded a Damehood.
Ruth was Head Coach of the Silver Ferns between 2002 and 2011, and in that time led them to their first World Cup title in 16 years in 2003 and back-to-back Commonwealth Games gold medals in 2006 and 2010. She was honoured with a World Netball Service award in 2021.
Speaking on the awards World Netball President Liz Nicholl CBE said: “World Netball would like to congratulate Ann and Ruth on their recognition in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.
“It is always very special to see Members of our Netball Family recognised for the work they do to support our commitment to grow, play, inspire and govern.
“Having been on the World Netball Board for 11 years, Ann has made a significant impact to the growth of our game globally and has been a key player in ensuring World Netball continues to remain a leader in best practice when it comes to Governance.
“Ruth’s achievements with the Silver Ferns were outstanding, and we were delighted to have her share her expertise on our Coaching Advisory Panel between 2011 and 2014.
“It is the work that people like Ann and Ruth do that helps to inspire the next generation worldwide.
“Congratulations Ann and Ruth and thank you for your continued contributions to our sport.”
