Success at the SISS Senior Netball Tournament in Nelson

The team were lucky enough to fly to Nelson this year and save the 2 day drive each way. This is due to the sponsorship provided by LJ Hooker, Dunedin and Reid Cooper Gray law firm. It was also helped by our community buying MK Activewear which was our main fundraiser for the year.

After losing a player to injury, we headed off with the core 8 Senior A players - Laura, Feile, Lucy, Nina, Molly, Paige, Harper and Niamh H, who were all ably assisted by our travelling reserves, Niamh B and Theresa. After a stressful landing in Nelson, it took two attempts in the wind, we knew we were in for some challenging conditions on the outdoor courts.

The first two days were played in very strong winds and the team had to adjust their game to play a lot shorter, to keep the ball within grasp. The team had 3 wins in pool play and came out 3rd in the pool, up from a 5th seeding. The last two days were played in calm and sunny conditions.

Thursday was a tough day, and we lost both the semi and the final. The semi-final was lost to Māruawai, who we had beaten two weeks previously in the Barbara Bell competition. The final was lost by two goals to Queen Charlotte College, whom we defeated by one goal in the 2025 final. The girls were disappointed, but at the same time, they have set the 2027 team up for success by moving into the top half of B grade.

Thanks also go to their amazing coach, Jill Mitchell-Larrivee and physio/masseuse Marama Bannister. We were lucky to have 4 travelling parents as well who livestreamed our games to those back at home and were vocal on the sidelines.