Netball Cook Islands’ Social Mixed Netball Tournament ended this week with Panthers claiming the top prize.

The competition, which was used to prepare the Cook Islands team for the upcoming Nations Cup and Pacific Games, saw an intense battle between the National Squad and Panthers in the final on Tuesday night.

The National Squad won the match but the title went to the Panthers.

Netball Cook Islands secretary Tekura Moekaa said it was an exhilarating semifinal and final.

Of the 10 teams, four progressed to the semifinals – National Squad, Rehab Rolly Pollies, Shine on Fiji Pearls and the Panthers.

Moekaa said the National Squad found it hard to settle, but found their feet in the final quarters while it was a close tussle between Shine on Fiji and Rehab Rolly Pollies with goals seesawing between the two.

She said the final was between National Squad and the Tupa Tupa led Panthers which provided a great challenge for the national players.

“Squad kept structure on the scoreboard taking the match.”

She said Netball Cook Islands would like to thank CIPs, Rehab, Raro Brewery, Vodafone and CITC for their kind support and donations for the prizes. 

The National Squad co-captains thanked the teams that entered the competition and those who supported the squad as this was a fundraising opportunity where fees went to the Cook Islands team. 

“Also, on behalf of the management team and NCI thank you to our families and those who have donated generously. We still have a long way to go with getting our team match fit and on the plane to the competition so we thank you for your support in advance,” Moekaa added.