“Ana’s legacy is not only what she achieved on the netball court, but the people she inspired along the way. She showed young Pacific and Māori women what was possible when you backed yourself, stayed true to who you were and led with courage and kindness.
“Most importantly, she made people feel valued, supported and proud. That is a legacy that will live on well beyond the game.”
Noovao made her New Zealand debut in 1989, and was elevated to lead the side in 1992 after Waimarama Taumaunu’s retirement, becoming the Silver Ferns’ 15th captain.
She was vice-captain in the one-off demonstration game against Australia at the 1990 Commonwealth Games, which led to the sport becoming a key event at the Commonwealth Games.
Noovao was also part of the Silver Ferns side that lost the 1991 Netball World Cup final to Australia by one goal.
Along with playing for the Silver Ferns, Noovao also represented the Cook Islands for two years before coaching them to seventh place at the 2007 Netball World Cup.
During her career, Noovao made the decision not to play on Sundays for religious reasons.
“On court, Ana had a real gift,” Wall said. “She saw the game differently.
“Her timing, vision and creativity made everything look effortless. She was calm under pressure, incredibly versatile and had a quiet strength that lifted those around her.
“Off court, she was warm, kind and grounded, with no ego. She had a natural leadership that people respected and trusted.”
Netball New Zealand’s website describes her as “a strong and mobile attacker with a calm temperament. Noovao’s strongest hand was often as an impact player where she thrived.”
Noovao has been described by friends and family on social media as a beloved mum, daughter, sister, grandmother, aunty and friend.
Fellow former Silver Fern Marg Foster said she was devastated by the news. Commenting on a Facebook post, she said: “Ana was one of the best roomys [sic] , she was an awesome captain, very calm and steady. I am devastated she has left our world early. Ana was so inspiring.”
Netball New Zealand President Dr Tina Karaitiana said their thoughts are with Noovao’s family.
“Ana carried the captaincy of the Silver Ferns with real grace, and she gave the game back far more than it ever asked of her, as a player, as a coach, and as a leader for Cook Islands netball,” Karaitiana said.
Her brother, Meti Noovao, also represented the Cook Islands in rugby league and made one appearance for the Warriors in 1997.
