Noovao’s legacy honoured Tuesday 11 August 2026 | Written by Supplied | Published in Netball, Sports ShareA former New Zealand and Cook Islands netball leader is being remembered for inspiring young players on both sides of the Tasman. Ana Noovao’s legacy stretches well beyond her time as a Silver Ferns captain. Noovao was also proud of her Cook Islands heritage and went on to represent the Cook Islands for two seasons. She says Noovao helped develop the team as they travelled through tournaments in preparation for the 2007 Netball World Cup. Noovao’s playing career included the 1991 Netball World Cup final where the Silver Ferns lost to Australia by a single goal.