Age group teams thrive on trip away

PODIUM FINISH: The Wanganui Under-15 Blue team (from left) Cheyanne McDougall, Keilani Tyrell, Ina Whanarere, Montel Vaiao Aki, De Ann Tyrell, Kerwyn Morgan, Shannah Andrews, Imogen Flower, Melini Meo (obscured) and Catherine Nauga, finished third in the Marjorie Jenden Netball Tournament in Kapi Mana at the weekend.PHOTO/SUPPLIED

ALL three Wanganui age group representative netball teams competing at the annual Marjorie Jenden Tournament at Kapi Mana over the weekend showed determination and promise.

Moving outside their comfort zones, developing new combinations, making connections and embracing mistakes as valuable tools for growth and development were key goals for a new look under-17 side who enjoyed wins against Wairarapa (31-12), Nelson (26-19), Horowhenua (27-18) and losses against Wellington Gold (20-27), Kapiti (27-21) and Kapi Mana (20-23) on the weekend.

Coach Parekura Muraahi was delighted with her side in their first hit out. She saw players rise above their individual shortcomings and fears to find solutions together as a team and discover the power of trusting in one another on court.

"In the short time we've been together I've really challenged the girls to become comfortable with being uncomfortable.

"We've adopted the 'train ugly' philosophy based on the concept that learning is not pretty and mistakes are essential tools that should not be feared, punished or avoided but rather used to propel you to into that special place where the magic happens. The magic of growth, of development, of self-awareness and of self-confidence which in the long run, will lead to greater success for these players," Muraahi said.

Wanganui Blue, too, had a great first tournament weekend winning four of five games to place third overall for under-15s.

In the semifinal against Manawatu the side went down 21-15 after a one goal difference in the first two quarters.

Outstanding play was consistent in all games from a strong defence combination of Cheyenne McDougall, Catherine Nauga, Melini Meo and Kerwyn Morgan.

The statistics from all three shooters - Shannah Andrews, Montel Vaiao Aki and Imogen Flower - were also impressive. In four of the five games the girls shot an average of 95 per cent which resulted in some solid winning margins of 10 or more goals. Given that Montel and Imogen are only in Year 9 and two of the three younger members of the team, it was thrilling to think how the experience of the weekend will only grow them further as players, coach Annie Rolls said.

She is also excited by the opportunity to develop and build on some strong combinations given the flexibility and depth of skill amongst all 10 players.

"It will be interesting to see how they girls position themselves in the next coming tournaments after a few more practices under their belt," she said.

" I am really looking forward to challenging them as well as mentally preparing them for what is to come. The height and physical presence of some of the other teams can be quite intimidating and we need to be equipped for that.

"The focus for us as a team is to ensure we stick to our style of play and adjust when things aren't working well."

"It is a talented side with so much potential and with some confidence, I have no doubt they will do their very best for themselves and for Wanganui."

Two Wanganui players - Montel Viaoa Aki and Kerwyn Morgan - were named in the 12-strong under-15 tournament team.

Wanganui U-15 White team showed great determination and courage throughout each game and were placed fourth in their pool. Coach Te Ora Nyman used this weekend's tournament to develop and make a connection of combinations in positions, and was satisfied with their progress.

"The team played awesome defence through the court, however there were times that they we were unable to finish off with the shooting."

The team finished eighth overall.