This will not be the first time that Byrne and Voge have collaborated as coaches, having previously held the Head Coach and Assistant Coach posts respectively at Queensland Fusion.
Voge most recently served as Pathways Coach for the Lightning, which saw her assume coaching duties for Lightning’s Deakin University Australian National League affiliate, Territory Storm, over the past two seasons. As Pathways Coach, she also provided support to Lightning’s elite program, through player development, opposition analysis and talent identification.
“Coaching has always been my passion and I’m thrilled to step into the full-time role of Assistant Coach at Lightning and can’t wait to see what the group can achieve in the new year,” Voge said.
“When looking at the talent of this playing group and the structures in place around them, I have no doubt that 2020 will be another exciting year for the club.”
Byrne, who has recently taken over from Noeline Taurua as head coach, spoke highly of the new coaching appointment, describing Voge as an excellent communicator with extensive coaching credentials and tactical nous.
“Chris has been an integral part of our team over the past two seasons and her appointment to Assistant Coach is thoroughly deserved,” Byrne said.
“The strong relationships Chris has already fostered at all levels of Lightning is a credit to her and will serve us well, alongside her innate understanding of our game.”
Voge will commence her new role with Lightning in January after five years with the Queensland Academy of Sport in the areas of Sport Performance Innovation and Knowledge Excellence (SPIKE) and Personal Development.
The Lightning athletes have returned to the gym this month, with pre-season training set to intensify in the new year.
