The Naitasiri Netball Association is celebrating the experience and exposure gained by its players during the recently concluded 2025 Battle of the Netters competition held at the National Netball Centre in Laucala. Participating with six teams across various age groups, including under-15, under-18, three open women’s teams, and one open men’s team, the competition presented a significant opportunity for development.
Arieta Naisake, the Secretary of the Naitasiri Netball Association, expressed her appreciation for the chance to showcase their talents against other associations from around the country. “Our teams really had a great experience in the competition. For most of our players, this was their first big tournament, and we are incredibly grateful for the exposure,” Naisake stated. The focus of the event was not solely on winning, but rather on gaining experience and enjoying the sport.
While many players were selected shortly before the competition and faced challenges, including financial constraints, the support from sponsors was instrumental in providing new jerseys and training gear. The team’s access to training facilities at the Nasinu Multipurpose Court, through the collaboration with the Nasinu Town Council, further assisted their preparations.
Sponsorship was critical for the association, especially considering many of the players were stay-at-home mothers, school leavers, or students. The Naitasiri Netball Association is grateful for the support received and is enthusiastic about continuing to represent their teams in future tournaments.
The community’s involvement and dedication shown by players and supporters reflect a broader trend witnessed in other netball associations in Fiji, such as the Nasinu Netball Association. Similar initiatives highlight the importance of providing development opportunities and fostering teamwork among young athletes. With the rising interest in netball, the hope for nurturing future talent remains strong. Overall, this initiative contributes positively towards the growth of netball in Fiji, building character and community cohesion through sport.