St Margaret’s College has achieved an extraordinary milestone by winning both the Year 9 and Year 10 divisions at the South Island Secondary Schools Netball Tournament. This historic achievement marks the first time in the tournament’s recorded history that a single school has claimed victory in both competitions.
The tournament, held at Ngā Puna Wai in Christchurch, saw teams from all over the South Island compete. St Margaret’s College’s Year 9 team faced St Andrew’s College in a thrilling final, securing their victory with a score of 27-22. The Year 10 team played an equally intense match against St Hilda’s, emerging victorious with a score of 36-30. Both matches were so tightly contested that they showcased the exceptional skill of middle school girls’ netball in the South Island.
Following their victories, both the Year 9 and Year 10 teams from St Margaret’s College will advance to compete in the prestigious New Zealand Secondary Schools (NZSS) Netball Tournament, where they will represent the South Island.
“The girls’ achievements are excellent,” said Executive Principal Diana Patchett. “But I am most proud of their courage and composure, their encouragement of one another and their joy in playing the game. Although, at times, it was pretty tense for the supporters!”
Year 9 coach Leanne Chambers highlights the calibre of the competition and the phenomenal achievement of both teams, “What an awesome week of netball. The level of competition is intense with the best junior players from around the South Island, so for our teams to win both grades is just outstanding.”
The South Island Secondary Schools Netball Tournament is a key event in the Middle School sports calendar. It allows young athletes to showcase their talents and compete at a high level. St Margaret’s College’s achievement will undoubtedly inspire future generations of netball players across the region.
