The Netball in Paradise tournament concluded with a memorable awards night at the Islander Hotel and Restaurant on Friday last week, marking a grand celebration of netball in Rarotonga.

The event was a perfect way to honour the achievements of the players, teams, and officials who made the tournament a success.

Ngere Puia, president of Netball Cook Islands and tournament director, praised the efforts of everyone involved.

Puia highlighted the significant challenges of organising a tournament with 33 teams playing on just two courts.

“Firstly, a huge congratulation to our Netball in Paradise committee. We were such a small team, but we successfully managed this tournament. With 33 teams competing on just two courts, it was a massive effort,” she said.

The 17 and Under Division saw Awakarangi emerge as champions, followed by Tuahine in second place and Blitz in third.

In the Social Ladies category, Rowdy Renegades claimed the top spot, with Whangaruru finishing second and Just Kruizin third.

The Open Women’s competition was fiercely contested, with Maketu taking first place, Central Starz securing second, and CFC A Team finishing third. Meanwhile, in the Mixed Division, Blitz dominated to claim victory, with Pa Puia in second and Ulalei Maire in third.

The tournament showcased the power of teamwork, passion, and community, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Netball Cook Islands expressed its gratitude to all participants and supporters, emphasising the importance of collective effort in delivering such a successful event. With the season now concluded, the organisation looks forward to an even bigger and better tournament next year.

On the final day of competition on Thursday, Puia summed up the spirit of the event perfectly: “The power of teamwork and passion brought this event to life, and we cannot wait for what lies ahead.”

Winners

17U – 1^st Awakairangi, 2^nd Tuahine, 3^rd Blitz; Social Ladies – 1^st Rowdy Renegades, 2^nd Whangaruru, 3^rd Just Kruizin; Open Ladies – 1^st Maketu, 2^nd Central Starz, 3^rd CFC- A Team; Mixed – 1^st Blitz, 2^nd Pa Puia, 3^rd Ulalei Maire.