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Hockey New Zealand deny coach Mark Hager has been sacked

December 21, 2018

Pressure is mounting on Hockey NZ in the wake of increasing claims of toxic team culture in the Black Sticks Women.

Hockey New Zealand have denied speculation that longtime coach Mark Hager will be sacked, after a report from Radio New Zealand this morning.

After 1 NEWS earlier this year revealed that Hager caused a rift within his side by accidentally emailing criticism to members of his own squad, it was reported that Hockey New Zealand's board and Chief Executive Ian Francis had informed both Hager and the players that the long-serving coach will be relieved of his position.

However, in a statement released this morning, Hockey New Zealand say no decision has been made, and that any changes in the coaching setup will be announced early in January next year.

The players association are planning to meet with Hockey New Zealand after Black Sticks Women’s coach Mark Hager's email blunder.

"No decisions will be made until the final review has been completed," Hockey New Zealand board acting chair Shane Collins said.

"We want to ensure the review is as comprehensive and robust as possible to help the sport as it continues on its journey of continuous improvement."

The Black Sticks women's next assignment will be the FIH Pro League, beginning January 27.

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