Student Achievements

Representing Australia in the U17 Men’s Netball team in New Zealand was one of the best experiences I've ever had. After being invited to the Australian selection camp following the Men's Nationals in Perth earlier this year, I was so excited to be selected and have the chance to wear the green and gold.

On arrival we experienced a Māori welcome. Taking part in the hongi, where you touch foreheads and noses as a sign of respect, made us feel really welcomed. We were also there during Matariki, the Māori New Year, which celebrates the Matariki star cluster and is a time to reflect, celebrate and look ahead.

It was awesome meeting so many great people from around Australia and New Zealand who all share the same love for netball. We made some great friendships, had heaps of fun together and learned so much from each other. Having the older returning players and the older age group competing alongside us was also really inspiring. Their experience, leadership and focus helped us stay motivated and keep our eyes on what we wanted to achieve.

To top it all off, we won the Pacific Horizon Cup, finishing the tournament undefeated with three wins from three games. Wearing the Australian colours and sharing that experience with such a great group of teammates is something I'll always be grateful for.

Phoenix B

Year 10