PORT Stephens and Nelson Bay 17 years representative netball teams have covered themselves in glory at the Netball NSW State Senior championships in Sydney.
In a huge fillip for the Hunter region, both squads have attained top four rankings with spirited performances in the Division Four category at the prestigious three day event.
Emma Penfold’s much heralded Port Stephens lineup enhanced their reputations with another strong showing at an elite netball tournament.
They showed skill, camaraderie and durability to finish runners up to Blayney in their quest for a State title.
Blayney, who won sixteen of their 17 fixtures played at the Baulkham Hills courts, were crowned champions with a total of 31 points – just one clear of Port Stephens (30 points) with Temora (30) and Nelson Bay (27 points) making up the top four.
It was a tremendous achievement by the talented Port Stephens outfit, who posted 15 victories and only two losses in a memorable campaign.
The girls registered wins over South Canberra Invitational 19-10, Gunnedah 32-10, Lower Clarence 17-15, Young 38-5, Tumut 27-14, Goulburn & District 26-7, Scone 27-10, Parkes District 15-7, Nelson Bay 18-11, Armidale District 14-6, Dungog 21-6, Gloucester 37-7, Wollondilly 19-10, Cowra 22-12 and Glen Innes 15-12.
Their only defeats in the round robin format were to State champions Blayney 18-11 and Temora 18-15.
For coach Penfold and crew, the State Championship heroics are a testimony of the team’s exhilarating form on the representative front in 2026.
Earlier this year the Port Stephens squad also finished runners up in the Netball NSW Hunter & Central Coast Regional League Division 5 series – a tremendous feat.
They showed their wares in a Regional League classic – succumbing 16-13 to all conquering Kurri Kurri in an epic Grand Final at the Niagara Park Stadium.
Port Stephens’ mighty 17 years squad features skilful prospects in Paige Boyles, Sarah Byrne, Madelane Connolly, Emily Crain, Charlotte Crampton, Laura Moir, Sybella O’Leary, Shelby Oldfield, Evie Oswell and Blair Vorenkamp.
Representative Convenor Nadina Marsh told News Of The Area that finishing runners up at a State Netball championship was an “incredible achievement.”
“Over three days of competition, this talented group showcased everything that representative netball is about — determination, resilience, teamwork and pride in the blue and white,” reflected Nadine.
“From the opening whistle to the final game, the team continued to grow in confidence and belief, building on the combinations, connections and hard work that have been developed throughout the rep season,” she said.
“Their commitment to one another and willingness to fight for every contest was on display all weekend.
“To finish the tournament with the Runners Up Blue Patch is a reward for months of preparation, sacrifice and dedication from not only the athletes but also the coaches, managers, umpires, families and supporters who have been part of the journey.
A proud Marsh said every player had a role to perform and they “executed it brilliantly.”
“Their commitment, adaptability and teamwork were outstanding and played a huge part in their success,” she added.
By Chris KARAS
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