The Naitasiri netball team marked a significant milestone with their inaugural participation in the Battle of the Netters 2025, held at the National Netball Centre in Laucala Bay, Suva. This debut provided a platform for the team to display their talent on a national level. Competing with six teams across different categories—including under-15, under-18, three open women’s grades, and an open men’s grade—the association made a noteworthy entrance into the competition.
Arieta Naisake, Secretary of the Naitasiri Netball Association, expressed their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the event. The primary aim was to gain exposure and enjoy the sport, rather than solely focusing on victories. The team’s commitment was evident as the under-15 and under-18 teams impressively advanced to the quarter-finals, a remarkable feat for first-time participants.
Encountering challenges such as team formation and financial constraints, the backing from sponsors like NewWorld and Crest proved crucial. Their support ensured the team was adequately equipped, allowing them to perform at their best. Naisake extended her gratitude towards their sponsors, acknowledging their pivotal role in enabling the association’s participation.
Across the competition, noteworthy results emerged: the Open Women’s category saw Nadi dominate Labasa with a score of 27-1, while Suva Mystics bested Nanukuloa 35-03. In the under-18 matches, Lautoka narrowly defeated Naitasiri 9-4, and Suva Hibiscus secured a decisive win against Suva Iris 18-1.
The event underscored not only the talent across various teams but also the growing enthusiasm for netball in Fiji. This sentiment mirrors past competitions, where similar associations emphasized the sport’s contribution to community building and player development. For Naitasiri, participating in the Battle of the Netters represents a stepping-stone towards future competitions. It fosters the next generation of netball players and strengthens the community’s spirit and sense of accomplishment.