Netball New Zealand is pleased to announce the NZ U21 squad, which will form the basis of the team for Netball World Youth Cup Gaborone 2017 (NWYC2017), July 8-16.
The squad was selected at the end of an intense four-day camp in Auckland, where the best up-and-coming talent in New Zealand went head-to-head.
NZ U21 coach Kiri Wills said the standard of play and skills were impressive, making selections difficult.
“Prior to camp I was looking forward to the new faces coming in and pushing for a spot in the squad – and that’s exactly what they did,” Wills said.
“This was one of the hardest processes I’ve been through; the competition for places was tight and that’s a strong indication of the work being done by the Zones and Clubs.
“We have selected a squad that is robust, resilient and diverse in the skill set they bring – it’s an exciting mix and we are looking forward to the next stage of our campaign as we prepare to defend the title in Gaborone.”
The NZ U21 team is the reigning world champion having defeated Australia, 52-47, in 2013.
The final squad will be reduced to a team of 12 prior to NWYC2017. They have been drawn in Pool A against Sri Lanka, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Samoa.
Name – 2016 Team
Aliyah Dunn* – Southland U19
Charlotte Elley – Mainland Tactix
Abby Erwood – Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel
Monica Falkner – Netball WBOP Beko team
Holly Fowler – SKYCITY Mystics
Jamie Hume – Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel
Fa’amu Ioane – SKYCITY Mystics
Kelly Jury** – WBOP Magic
Tiana Metuarau – Central Beko team
Theresa Ngata* – Netball North Harbour U19
Jennifer O’Connell – Netball South Beko team
Kimiora Poi – Central Beko team
Ainsleyanna Puleiata* – Wellington A U17
Mila Reuelu- Buchanan – Netball Central Beko team
Renee Savaiinaea – Wellington A U17
Michaela Sokolich-Beatson – SKYCITY Mystics
Maia Wilson** – Central Pulse
* Denotes athletes whose selection is subject to fitness.
** Denotes eligible for NZ U21 selection and currently in Silver Ferns squad.