The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic have announced the roles of assistant coach and team manager for the 2019 ANZ Premiership season.

Mary-Jane Araroa has been appointed assistant coach. She led the Waikato Bay of Plenty Beko Netball League side for the 2018 season, and brings a strong coaching pedigree to the Magic where she will assist head coach Amigene Metcalfe.

Mandy Souchon joins the Magic as team manager having proven her team management skill with the Waikato Bay of Plenty in 2017.

Netball Waikato Bay of Plenty CEO Rohan West says it was fantastic to secure two strong support from within the Zone's own pathways.

'Congratulations to Mary-Jane and Mandy on joining the WBOP Magic whanau. As with players, for the organisation to be able to promote from within the greater Netball Waikato Bay of Plenty family for these roles is very gratifying,” he says.

'Our professional development and pathways for coaches and team support staff are working well and we are creating opportunities for talented netball professionals to stay, and succeed, in our zone.”

'Mary-Jane's trajectory and achievements in the Netball WBOP and Netball NZ spheres are well documented, especially the performance of WBOP's Beko Netball League team in 2018 so this is a natural progression for her.”

'We are also delighted to welcome back Mandy after a year away. Her past experience with our Beko Netball League Team and all-round knowledge and capability will be vital for the team.”

Magic head coach Amigene Metcalfe echoed the sentiment and says she is excited about the prospects for next season.

'A massive welcome to both Mandy and MJ. The team is very fortunate to have such quality people within our zone and they bring a wealth of knowledge and life experience,” says Amigene.

'MJ will be an invaluable addition to our coaching team and will add real value to player development and team performance. Mandy has a proven track record in managing high performance teams and is a passionate netball supporter.”

The Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic will get the 2019 ANZ Premiership season underway in style, hosting an opening round Super Sunday at Claudelands Arena on Sunday February 24.