Howick College Netball Players Shine with National Honors

Four talented netball players from Howick College in New Zealand have achieved national recognition by earning spots on the New Zealand Secondary Schools (NZSS) Netball Team. This selection is particularly notable as both the captain and vice-captain of the team hail from the same school.

Year 13 students Avah Sila, Charlie Lindsay, Sierra Lau’ese, and Zermahnia Manu were chosen for the 2025 NZSS side after an intensive camp held in Auckland over the Labour Weekend. This national camp gathered top secondary school players from across the country for specialized coaching and competitive matches, including games against international teams like Australia’s ACT Spirit and the Pacific Pearls.

In a significant achievement for Howick College, Avah Sila was appointed captain of the NZSS team, while Charlie Lindsay took on the role of vice-captain. This double honor underscores the remarkable talent cultivated at the school.

Principal Dale Burden expressed pride in the players’ achievements, stating, “For two of our players to be named captain and vice-captain at national level is a huge achievement and something very few schools experience. It speaks volumes about their leadership, skill, and the quality of netball being developed here at Howick College.”

Dominant Performances in National Tournament

The NZSS team demonstrated their strength during the tournament, securing impressive victories, including a 57-31 win against the ACT Spirit and a 64-34 triumph over the Pacific Pearls. Notably, the Pearls’ squad included Howick College players Carolyn Sio, Ariella Vaitupu, and Sia Neiufi, with Junior Manapori, Howick Premier 1 assistant coach, leading the team.

Director of Netball Tania Tuinukuafe highlighted the depth and skill present within Howick College’s netball program. “Our players continue to shine on the national stage. They’ve worked incredibly hard throughout the year, and it’s fantastic to see that effort recognized at this level,” she said.

Established in 2001, the NZSS programme has served as a crucial stepping stone for many players aspiring to join the ranks of the Silver Ferns, New Zealand’s national netball team. Both Avah and Charlie have also been named finalists for the Auckland College Sport YSPOTY Awards for their contributions to netball.

Adding to her accolades, Avah was recently honored as the Howick College All-Round Sportswoman of the Year for her exceptional performance in netball, athletics, and rugby sevens, as well as being named Senior Sportswoman of the Year.

The achievements of Howick College’s netball players not only reflect their individual talents but also highlight the school’s commitment to developing outstanding athletes in the sport. With their recent successes, these young athletes are poised to make significant contributions to New Zealand netball in the future.