Netball South proudly hosted the Junior Southland Secondary Schools Tournament on Saturday 14 June, marking an exciting new chapter for secondary school netball in the region.

Traditionally combined with the senior competition, 2026 saw the tournament split into separate junior and senior events to better align with the South Island Secondary Schools Junior and Senior Tournaments. The event also introduced a new mixed grade, providing greater opportunities for participation and making the tournament more accessible for smaller and rural schools, while welcoming the inclusion of boys.

Despite sharing ILT Stadium Southland with Round 10 of the ANZ Premiership clash between the Southern Steel and Mainland Tactix, the venue was buzzing with netball enthusiasm throughout the day. The atmosphere created a memorable experience for players, supporters and officials alike.

Overall, the day was a great success, highlighting the talent, sportsmanship and passion for netball that exists throughout Southland. The introduction of the mixed grade was particularly well received, with positive feedback reflecting its value in providing increased participation opportunities and creating an enjoyable experience for players.

Netball South extends its congratulations to all teams, players, umpires, coaches, managers, parents and volunteers whose efforts helped make the first standalone Junior Tournament such a success. Special congratulations go to the grade winners, whose performances throughout the day were outstanding.

Netball South would also like to acknowledge the support of its local sponsors, Subway Windsor, New World Windsor and Seriously Good Chocolate Co., as well as the dedicated Sports Med Southern Physio students, whose assistance throughout the tournament was greatly appreciated.

Netball South looks forward to continuing to grow and strengthen junior secondary school netball opportunities across the region.

Year 10 Grade

  1. James Hargest 10A
  2. Southland Girls' High School 10A
  3. Central Southland College 10A

Year 9 Grade

  1. Central Southland College 9A
  2. Wakatipu High School 9A
  3. Southland Girls' High School 9A

Mixed Grade

  1. Menzies College Development
  2. Aparima Stars
  3. Maruawai College Int. A

Full results can be found here.

THANKS TO OUR FUNDERS