Netball Manawatū’s Under 18 programme is brimming with potential and renewed energy, following a successful trial period that saw an encouraging turnout of talented young athletes. The 2025 campaign marks not only a step forward in player development but also a strong show of unity among coaching staff, determined to nurture the region’s next generation of netball stars.

Ashleigh-Kate Araroa-Waerea, General Manager of Netball Manawatū, expressed her delight at the number of trialists this year. While it’s no secret that the Under 18 age group often experiences a drop in participation—particularly as players transition from secondary school to tertiary education or the workforce—the trend seems to be shifting.

“Over the last two years, we’ve seen a promising increase in both returning and new players,” Araroa-Waerea shared. “It’s awesome to see these young women showing eagerness to stay involved and compete for a spot in our U18 teams.”

This year, two teams—Manawatū Under 18 Green and Manawatū Under 18 White—will represent the region. The selection process, however, was anything but easy.

“We had to come back around the table more than once,” Araroa-Waerea admitted. “There were some in-depth and courageous conversations about our selections. The hardest part is always knowing that not everyone can be selected, especially when you see such incredible talent in front of you.”

Despite the difficulty of trimming down the squad, Araroa-Waerea emphasized the importance of keeping non-selected players engaged in the sport. “We’re working on ways to ensure those who missed out this time continue to feel connected and supported in their netball journeys.”

Fresh Faces and Familiar Energy on the Sidelines

This season also welcomes a new coaching structure, combining fresh insights with experienced leadership. The Manawatū Under 18 Green Team will be led by Head Coach Nikole Waaka and Assistant Coach Lathainia Lowrie.

Waaka, an established figure in the region’s netball scene, is thrilled with the depth and diversity in this year’s player pool.

“I’m very excited by the talent we have across the region,” she said. “It made the selection process really tough. But after a lot of kōrero and reflection, I’m confident that the 11 players we’ve chosen will deliver what’s needed. The versatility within the team is especially exciting.”

Lowrie added, “It’s going to be an exciting 2025 season. I’m looking forward to learning, growing, and contributing to the development of this team alongside Nikole.”

Meanwhile, the Manawatū Under 18 White Team will be under the guidance of Head Coach Golda Smith, who brings passion and high hopes for the campaign.

“I’m really looking forward to working with a young, vibrant, and talented group of up-and-comers,” Smith said. “The energy these players bring is infectious, and I can’t wait to see how they develop over the season.”

Congratulations to Our 2025 Selections

Netball Manawatū extends a massive congratulations to the following players selected to represent the region:

Manawatū Under 18 Green Team:

1. Maddox Wihongi – Freyberg High School
2. Hinepurotu Hauiti – MANUKURA
3. Elizabeth Adrole
4. Hineteohorere Tapuke – MANUKURA
5. Abbey Ross-Veale – Freyberg High School
6. Madysen Petley – Massey University
7. Loupua Mafi – MANUKURA
8. Adelaide Triggs – St Peter’s College
9. Ruby Thompson – Feilding High School
10. Tarshay Rawhiti-Fiti – Queen Elizabeth College (QEC)
11. Te Maia Sweetman – MANUKURA

Manawatū Under 18 White Team:

1. Peyton Smith – Freyberg High School
2. Caitlin-Rose Rameka – MANUKURA
3. Bayly Castles – Dannevirke High School
4. Neve Matthews – MANUKURA
5. Holly McIntyre – Feilding High School
6. Jaeda Hagley-Tutauha – Feilding High School
7. Isla Fellows
8. Summer Kidby – Palmerston North Girls’ High School (PNGHS)
9. Mareta Grieg – Freyberg High School
10. Sally Peffers – Dannevirke High School

More Than Just a Game

The Under 18 campaign is about more than just winning—it’s about creating a high-performance environment that supports personal growth, teamwork, and a lifelong love for netball.

With a strong coaching lineup, growing player numbers, and a genuine commitment to development, Netball Manawatū is set to make its mark in the 2025 season.

As Araroa-Waerea summed up: “It’s not just about the here and now—it’s about building a future where our young athletes feel inspired, supported, and excited to keep playing the game they love.”

Article added: Wednesday 16 April 2025