Premier 2 preview: First male to play in prem final


Netball Taranaki previews the three premier finals ahead of the weekend. Check out our premier two final preview. 

Adversity and inclusion will be celebrated in the premier two final at the TSB Stadium on Saturday.

Daragh Hamilton-Davis will become the first male to play in a premier final when he lines up for Naumai Steve Gray Plasterers against Sacred Heart Girls’ College Senior A.

The 16-year-old is one of two males playing in premier competitions as Netball Taranaki increased the male participation age to 16.

Hamilton-Davis said he loved playing premier netball this year and is a big step up from school netball.

“I’ve loved the physicality and intensity it’s brought. I’ve loved learning from some of the experienced players in the team and they have taught me a lot through the year.”

His skill set allowed him to shut down opposition attackers and he brings the fitness to run out a strong 60-minute performance.

The versatility he brings also saw him bib-up in multiple positions and often switched between the defensive circle to the shooting end, which is not easy for a netballer.  

Hamilton-Davis’ Naumai side was promoted from premier three and earn entry into the final after losing one match in the championship round.

That form will need to continue given Sacred Heart Girls’ College could be seen as a dark horse heading into the final.

Sacred Heart narrowly missed out on promotion into the premier one competition after losing its match to Tysons West over a month ago, which was effectively a promotion match.

Coach Che Tamati said the team grew in confidence this year, especially over the last four weeks.

“They turn up to training and worked hard and its visible in their performance.

“The units are starting to connect and work well together which is pleasing to see coming towards the end of the season.”

Tamati said they’re starting to gain a better understanding of each other and their roles within the unit.

Sacred Heart worked as a full team unit this year and Tamati said every week it's been able to play a full complement on the court leading into the finals.

“Wing defender Amelita Peters has been a real workhorse for us this season and we expect her to make an impact on Saturday.”

Centre pass is at 2:15pm.

Steve Gray Plasterers Naumai:

Shannon Berry, Nikita Boyes, Isabelle Cook, Simone Cook, Kendyl Fake, Daragh Hamilton-Davis, Jamie-Lee James, Alaire Kahupukoro, Kiara Katene, Nikki Katene, Brooke Slade, Jamie Wineera. Coach: Nikki Katene.

Sacred Heart Girls College Snr A:

Nikayla Barnard, Alix Blyde, Charli Burnett, Zoe Hall, Hannah Hitchcock, Angel Ladbrook, Tayla MacLeod, Amalita Peters, Jorja Simpson, Keighley Simpson, Lily Syrus, Gemma Walsh. Coach: Che Tamati

Article added: Wednesday 23 September 2020

 

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