Mount Albert Grammar School has returned to the top of New Zealand secondary school netball, claiming a thrilling 34-32 win over Howick College in the NZSS Netball Champs final in Porirua.
After finishing 15th last year, Mt Albert completed an unbeaten tournament to reclaim the title they last won in 2018, adding to a historic era that included four consecutive championships between 2012 and 2015.
The final was a nail-biter, with goal shoots Mali Toleafoa (Mt Albert) and Sierra Lau’ese (Howick) trading goals throughout. Both teams displayed high skill, intensity, and precision, keeping the match on a knife-edge until the final whistle. Key moments late in the fourth quarter, including a critical turnover and a two-minute suspension of Howick’s goal defence, gave Mount Albert the edge to secure the win.
In the third-place playoff, Westlake Girls High School edged out Trident High School 33-30 in another tight contest, with Westlake producing a strong final quarter to seal their podium finish.
Mount Albert Grammar’s triumph highlights the strength of Auckland netball and the dedication of its young athletes, making a strong statement as they return to the top of the national stage.
To read more about the win, go to Netball New Zealand article.
