Netball Cook Islands has announced its development squad in preparation for the World Youth Cup 2025.

The selection of the 40-member development squad was done as part of Netball CI’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen the sport in the Cook Islands.

Secretary Tekura Moeka’a said: “With an eye on the upcoming World Youth Cup in 2025, this squad marks the beginning of a journey to nurture local talent and expand participation.”

She emphasised that this was not a final selection but rather a starting point aimed at growing the numbers and cultivating local talent.

“Netball Cook Islands aims to foster a vibrant netball community by harnessing local talent and providing a pathway for aspiring athletes to excel on the international stage,” Moeka’a said. 

“With the World Youth Cup on the horizon, NCI is committed to nurturing these young athletes into future netball stars, making the Cook Islands proud.”

Moeka’a said the squad has a dedicated local coaching and managing team that will oversee their progress. 

Netball Cook Islands has scheduled its first meeting on Wednesday, June 28, at 6pm to discuss plans for the future and outline the roadmap for the team. 

Moeka’a added that an example of an activity/plan would include training and joining the national squad to get exposure to the type of training for competitions.

The team includes: Nicol Tiaore, Iva Piakura, Maya Piakura, Mere-Jean Piri, Normavina Pepe, Kubethreana Taripo, Tuannaore Mitchell, Tashi Kopu, Mahanarei Short, Keeana Kapi, Aleida Tere, Antheya Brown, Tia-Marie Strickland, Lilyana Matatini, Penina Arnold,  Tailei Blake, Akirata Short, Teremoana Macquarie, Trina Ahau, Teuararii Macquarie, Terrisa Piri, Maara Teariki, Akevai Purua, Melody Tommy, Mia Nga, Sonik Lia-Russell, Ngamarae Tangaina, Teau Herrmann-Tuaivi, Teau Maui, Maria Patia, Noelini Tuakana, Shalom Vunibaka, Hereata Mapu, Isabella Nicholas, Mila Nicholas, Allisthena Poila, Feliza Nicholas, Danielle Arona, Jiosifini Wong, Kayla-Marama Fraser, Faith Ben and Romane Safotu. (New additions; Edon Teraitua, Anne Browne, Celine Piakura, Josie Moamanu, Maarametua Uritaua).