What an incredible experience this UK tour has been for our Massey High School netball whānau.
Over the past two weeks, our girls travelled across England and Wales, embracing every opportunity that came their way. From exploring Camden Markets, Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Madame Tussauds and the River Thames to experiencing the magic of the Harry Potter Studios and Wicked in the West End, the girls have created memories to last a lifetime.
The team also visited Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, Cardiff Castle, Principality Stadium, St Fagans Museum and even spent time at Oxford University. Along the way, they learned about different cultures, history and traditions while forming friendships and connections that will stay with them long after the tour.
A highlight of the sporting side of the trip was spending time in the London Mavericks and Cardiff Dragons environments, where the girls took part in training sessions, performance workshops, recovery education, and strength and conditioning sessions.
One of the most memorable experiences was our visit to Solihull School. Sharing our culture through waiata and te reo Māori at assembly was a proud moment, with Payton Sweeney, Trinity Edwards and Xanthia Pasene representing our school beautifully. The overnight billeting experience was another special part of the journey, with students returning full of stories and wonderful memories.
On court, the girls competed against Berkhamsted School, Cardiff opposition at the House of Sport, Solihull School, Rugby School, Cherub Angels and Campion. Prem 2 recorded fantastic wins against Cardiff, Solihull School and on our final match day, while both teams were involved in several close contests throughout the tour. The growth, resilience and teamwork shown from the first game to the last were outstanding.
A special congratulations to our opposition-selected Players of the Day:
- Qwensah
- Sofia Palupe-Grant (three awards)
- Trinity Edwards
- Payton Sweeney
- Dakota Pegler
- Nakitah Skinner (two awards)
- Maree Robertson
Our final playing day was particularly special as our Year 13 students took the court for their last game representing Massey High School. A huge acknowledgement to Kelly Godden, Dakota Pegler, Paige Andrews and Maree Robertson. Thank you for your contribution to Massey Netball. We wish you all the very best for the exciting journeys ahead.
It was also wonderful to have former Massey student Cailyn Selfe, now living in the UK, come along to support the girls. Such a special moment!
Perhaps the most rewarding feedback came away from the court. Time and again, hosts, opposition teams and venue staff commented on how respectful, polite and appreciative our girls were. They represented Massey High School with mana, humility and pride wherever they went.
Thank you to our players, staff, supporters and whānau who helped make this journey possible. We wish everyone a safe journey home.
Ka mau te wehi, kōtiro mā. You have been outstanding ambassadors for Massey High School, your whānau and Aotearoa. We couldn't be prouder.
