Hero photograph
Senior A Netball 2018
 
Photo by Miss Turnbull

One step at a time

Miss Turnbull —

This was the motto for our superstar Senior A Netball Team during the 2018 South Island Secondary School Tournament held in Dunedin.

Coached by Mrs Piebenga and Mrs Graamans and managed by Mrs Sycamore this team was in very experienced and capable hands. Taking it one game at a time, early wins in pool play saw these stars reach their first goal of top 16. A tough crossover with Marian College saw our team triumph  40-34, earning them a place in the quarterfinals. Facing a very tall and athletic Christchurch Girls side, the girls fought to the final whistle but couldn't quite take the lead to make the top four.

Rangiora were up next, and a win in this game would keep their chances of nationals alive and wow was it exciting! Coming away with a thrilling 44-42 win. The game went down to the wire and the 4th quarter ended with a 38-38 draw. Forcing extra time our girls dug deep to clinch the victory and advance to the 5th/6th playoff against local competitors St Hilda’s. 

Another edge of your seat finish, 29-29 at the end of regulation time, the Senior A Netball players found themselves in an all too familiar position of extra time. At this point in a tournament after all the minutes played, to then have to go and play even longer really takes a toll on not only your body but also mentally and emotionally. We were inspired by the character and 'do or die' attitude of this group of talented athletes. Unfortunately, they couldn't quite finish with the win, narrowly missing out on a spot at nationals but they kept their heads high after an incredible display of netball. 

Throughout their journey, the team played with lots of heart and never once gave up and we couldn't be more proud. Thank you to our Year 13 superstars Chenoa Metua and Mckayler Moore - they have represented the dove with pride and have shown great service to not only netball but sport at Columba in general. They will be missed and we wish them all the best in their future sporting endeavours.