- By Henry Lee, AUT Journalism Student
Howick College have won the national secondary schools netball championship this afternoon in Christchurch against Auckland rivals Avondale College, 35-34.
Howick and Avondale have battled it out in three championship finals this year, with Howick coming away with all three victories in very close contests.
The national secondary schools’ final was closely contested, with the last two minutes providing end-to-end drama.
With two minutes to go, it was advantage to Avondale, with Howick down to six players as experienced player Avah Sila was sent off.
Howick held their nerve and fought back when Year 13 student Eseta Waiqaira earned a crucial steal with just over a minute to go.
The victory adds to a stellar year for Howick College in the sporting arena, after the rugby girls First XV won the Auckland competition before coming second at the national finals.
Howick College’s sporting programme continues to excel under the director of sport and premier netball coach Adelita Sotutu, who has helped transform Howick into a powerhouse sporting school.
Howick College premier netball team finals record in 2024:
Auckland secondary schools final: Howick 40 Avondale College 37
UNISS final: Howick 40 Avondale 39
National secondary schools final: Howick 35 Avondale 34
