Former Silver Fern Courtney Tairi is used to doing things just a little differently. Take her netball journey, for example. Born in Australia to Kiwi parents, Courtney (31) spent her life vying for spots in Aussie’s domestic league. She played three seasons for the New South Wales Swifts before returning to New Zealand, determined to fulfil her dream of becoming a Fern.
Always calling herself a Kiwi, despite what it said on her birth certificate, the stunning athlete achieved her dream despite three potentially career-ending injuries. “Yup, I have the scars to prove it!” she says, gesturing to her knees, which bear the marks of two anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions – and she also had an Achilles tendon repair after a rupture in 2015.
But it’s these injuries that helped lead Courtney to an unexpected passion – one that would eventually eclipse her lofty netball ambitions.
These days Courtney can call herself a broadcaster and presenter, fronting The Kiwi League Show alongside Monty Betham on Sky Sport, as well as covering all manner of sporting events for the network. It’s a dream job, and one Courtney can’t quite believe she has.
“People who know me can’t believe it either,” she says, laughing. “I used to be really shy and quiet. But I think as I took on more senior roles in my netball teams, and those captaincy roles, I got so much more confident and I found my voice. And here I am now – I think Sky almost Mr. Miyagi-ed me into this.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Sweet SUCCESS
Delicious twists on traditional favourites
Calzone CRAVING
Anything you can put on top of a pizza can go inside these air fryer Italian turnovers
Kai & kindness - ‘OUR RECIPE FOR A GOOD LIFE'
The foodie and her brother have dished up a cookbook full of comfort
Kia Ora Dame! 'I HAD A BIGGER PURPOSE'
It could have taken a toll on her, but Naida's phone greeting started a legacy
Dame Hinewehi's healing haka - 'IT'S GOING TO CHANGE LIVES'
Beating a world record is personal for the music therapy founder
Unbreakable Mamie - 'I'M READY TO FAMOUS!' BE
The TV star and model is excited about what the future holds
Below Deck detective - CAPTAIN LEE'S SEA CHANGE
The superyacht hero's family tragedy has led him to navigate scary waters
Swings & roundabouts - OWEN'S BIG KID PROJECT
Playtime's a whole lot more fun thanks to the radio host
Haunted by tragedy - KATE'S SHOCK LOSS
The star is still dealing with the death of her dad when she was aged four
Top-secret royal plan - BRINGING HARRY HOME
Disillusioned with life in the US, the prince is reaching out to friends in the UK