Latest news with #SilverFern
The Spinoff
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Spinoff
Review: Netball docuseries Game On is a heartwarming gem
Tara Ward watches Three's new sports series about a group of New Zealand netball legends who return for one last game. The nerves are obvious from the opening moments of Game On. Former Silver Fern Temepara Bailey zips up her suitcase before she realises she's forgotten to pack her netball shoes. Adine Wilson wonders aloud why she agreed to come on a TV show, while Silver Fern centurion Casey Kopua limps into an indoor netball stadium to warmly greet her former netball teammates. They all look as concerned as she does. 'What have I signed myself up for?' she wonders. What Kopua and her fellow netball legends have committed to is a daunting physical and mental challenge, with every second captured on camera. Game On is Three's inspiring new sports docuseries that sees a team of former Silver Ferns come out of retirement to play for a high-stakes netball tournament. They've been called back to the court by coaches Yvonne Willering and Yvette McClausland-Durie, who will guide them through the tough process of returning to top-level sport. 'We're here to provide the challenge of transforming the former Ferns into the elite athletes that you were in the past,' Willering tells the ex-Silver Ferns. 'Good luck,' Kopua replies. It won't be easy – Daneka Tuineau hasn't touched a netball since she retired 14 years ago, Wilson broke her neck in 2016, while Kopua is awaiting a double knee replacement. While they may still be as competitive and passionate as they were two decades ago, their bodies tell a different story. 'I did try playing social netball, but man, they just want to show you that you're not as good as you were 10 years ago,' Irene van Dyk laughs. 'No shit Sherlock, I know that.' Game On is similar in warmth and spirit to another local sports docuseries, Match Fit, but it comes with a new twist: not only are these players preparing to compete against teams of other ex-internationals, they're also mentoring a group of promising young netballers. These rangatahi have been nominated by members of their community, and after the first fitness test with the Ferns, they immediately rise to the challenge. 'I don't want to get outschooled by people double my age,' 16-year-old Brooklyn says. It would be easy for the former world champions to stay on the sidelines and let their achievements do the talking. Instead, they share moments of vulnerability and bravery as they're confronted with how their bodies have changed over the years, and reflect on what happens when an international sporting career ends ('netball is my life… when I retired, I realised, who am I? I'm no-one,' a tearful van Dyk says in episode two). This honesty and emotion makes their return to the sport all the more powerful. Not only do the Ferns want to prove to themselves that they can do it, but they're also relishing the rare opportunity to be back with their mates, playing the game that brought them together all those years ago. Game On isn't about winning; it's about the power of community. It's about women championing other women, no matter what season of life they're in, and it's impossible not to feel inspired and uplifted by their strength and resilience. Game On is a gem of a series, a heartwarming reminder that no matter your age, you can still do hard things – and that maybe, for some of us at home, it's never too late to try and become a Silver Fern.
Otago Daily Times
24-07-2025
- Sport
- Otago Daily Times
Local Legend: Francis ‘‘Dribbles'' Parker
PHOTO: NICK BROOK Clutha cup-week's second Silver Fern Farms-Clutha Leader Local Legend needs no introduction and was not hard to find. Clutha's prominent field-side commentator and sports corespondent Francis "Dribbles" Parker is notoriously camera-shy, but yielded to peer-pressure during the halftime break of the Steamers' final match. Covering countless rugby and cricket encounters for your favourite publications, Francis Parker's prose ranges from frank and punchy to refined and thoughtful, the whole time walking-the-talk as an active sportsman himself. "We'll get this on the spit tomorrow, eh boys? "Cheers Silver Fern!" Clutha's latest lamb leg recipient announced.
NZ Herald
22-07-2025
- Sport
- NZ Herald
Rising netball stars push for Silver Ferns selection after strong season
LockerRoom takes a look at four players pushing for their first Ferns test cap, and two premiership rookie standouts to look out for in the future. Filda Vui's clutch super shot has been outstanding in the new format competition. Photo / Michael Bradley Photography Filda Vui Filda Vui is by no means a new face in the ANZ Premiership, making her first appearance in 2020. However, being paired with Grace Nweke at the Northern Mystics meant Vui often took a backseat when it came to scoring goals, sometimes simply used as a second feeder to Nweke. In 2025, that's all changed. When Mystics goal shoot Donnell Wallam was ruled out of part of the season with injury, a leader needed to step up in the shooting circle, and Vui did so. Vui has the highest volume of two-point shots in the domestic competition, sinking 28 from 44 attempts this season. Her calm head in the circle and connections with her midcourters have shown her to be a proficient goal attack who could see higher honours soon. An uncapped Silver Fern, Vui was named in the team for the Netball Quad Series in January 2022 but didn't take the court, and hasn't managed to crack the squad since. Saviour Tui's smile is deceiving – seen here wrestling for possession with Mystics' Catherine Hall. Photo / Michael Bradley Photography Saviour Tui Often stuck on the bench, or behind a seasoned goal shoot, Saviour Tui has made a name for herself ever since moving to the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic in 2024 – having played two seasons for the Mystics and then two for the Steel. The third-most prolific shooter in the ANZ Premiership, Tui has thrived at goal shoot alongside Silver Fern Ameliaranne Ekenasio. She's also shown her range, with 27 super shots – the second highest in the competition. While she may not have the height of other goal shooters, at 189cm, Tui makes up for it with her athleticism and strong balance on the baseline. The 23-year-old's ability to rein in feeds and stay strong under the hoop could make her a great option up against international defenders for the Silver Ferns. A former New Zealand Secondary Schools representative, Tui has been a member of the NZ A and Ferns development squads, and even played for Samoa in 2022. Georgie Edgecombe goes from strength to strength with every season in the Magic. Photo / Michael Bradley Photography Georgie Edgecombe Georgie Edgecombe is a player who's gone from strength to strength. Still growing in her fifth full season with the Magic, the midcourter's athletic skills and physical strength are an asset to her team. Often seen at wing defence, Edgecombe finished the 2025 ANZ Premiership season with an impressive 33 deflections, one of the top in the competition. She also had 13 clean intercepts and 17 pick ups, with a never-give-up attitude for her side. Also with 33 feeds and 37 centre pass receives, she has shown she can be used at centre and is steady through the midcourt too. Previously a member of the NZA and Silver Ferns development squad, this could be the year Edgecombe pushes for that black dress. Carys Stythe was a spectacular signing for Steel in 2025. Photo / Michael Bradley Photography Carys Stythe Carys Stythe has been touted as a future Silver Fern for years now, after making her debut for the Mystics. But a move down south to the Southern Steel this year has seen a huge change in her game, and the call may be coming soon. Finishing top of the ladder in defensive rebounds with 21, Stythe's height in the defensive circle has made her one of the country's top goal keeps. She was a key member of the Steel team, reliable at the back of the court. A member of the Silver Ferns development squad, Stythe could very well see herself in the national team this year. But keep an eye out for former teammate Catherine Hall. Finding her feet at the Mystics after being largely kept on the bench, Hall now tops the season for deflections and intercepts and could find herself challenging some experienced players for that black dress. With Hall playing in the grand final on July 20, she still has one more game left to impress the Ferns selectors. Rookie Sophia Lafaiali'i shored up the Mystics shooting end while Wallam was injured. Photo / Mystics Sophia Lafaiali'i When Wallam went down injured in round three, the Mystics had the choice of finding an international or retired player to cover the goal shoot bib. Instead, they looked to their development players, specifically 20-year-old Sophia Lafaiali'i. Many thought the Mystics may struggle without Wallam, with wing attack Peta Toeava known for her pinpoint accurate feeds to taller shooters. But Lafaiali'i didn't skip a beat, playing a full 60 minutes in her second game, and only missing one goal. Shooting at 93% accuracy, Lafaiali'i has scored 137 goals since being introduced to the Mystics side. She's also since been rewarded with a call-up to trial for the NZ U21 team to play in the Netball World Youth Cup in September. Holly Mather in action for Tactix against her sister's side, Stars. Photo / Michael Bradley Photography Holly Mather In her first fully contracted season, Holly Mather has been busy. Playing in every game for the Tactix, Mather averages 52 minutes on court per game, typically running around at centre. Mather had played for both the Marvels and the Comets in the National Netball League, before making the step up to the ANZ Premiership, joining the Stars as injury replacement last season. Being able to play for the Stars alongside older sister Lisa in the midcourt was a special moment for the family from the Far North. With a massive 202 feeds this season, Mather's error rate was very low for a new player and she slotted into the Tactix environment seamlessly. Her reliability throughout court was impressive, and the likelihood of her being snapped up for another season in the ANZ Premiership will be very high after her showings on court this year. Tactix and Steel will face off in the ANZ Premiership elimination final at Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch on Sunday, at 7.30pm. The game will be live on Sky Sport. This story was originally published at and is republished with permission.
Scoop
21-07-2025
- Sport
- Scoop
Silver Ferns Captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio Announces Unavailability For 2025 International Season
Silver Ferns captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio has today confirmed she will be making herself unavailable for the 2025 international netball season, stepping back from the national side after more than a decade at the top of the game. Since making her debut in 2014, Ekenasio has proudly worn the black dress 79 times, playing a key role in New Zealand's 2019 Netball World Cup triumph and captaining the team to victory in the 2021 and 2024 Constellation Cup series, along with multiple Taini Jamison Trophy wins. Renowned for her calm leadership and long-range accuracy, Ekenasio has been a powerful force both on and off the court. She was named Silver Ferns captain in 2021 and returned to the role after the birth of her second child. Reflecting on her decision, Ekenasio said choosing to step away from the Silver Ferns for the upcoming international season wasn't an easy decision, but it's one I've thought deeply about. 'I need this break—for my mind, body, and spirit. It's been an amazing journey, but now it's time to listen to what I need personally and take space to reset.' 'It's been the greatest honour to represent Aotearoa and to lead this group of amazing women. There is so much talent and within the Ferns environment and I'm excited for what lies ahead.' Silver Ferns head coach Dame Noeline Taurua acknowledges Ekenasio's decision: 'I've always supported athletes in making decisions that are right for them. I fully respect Ameliaranne's choice to step away from the international stage at this time. As a mother and wife, supporting a growing family, alongside the demands of being a high-performance athlete and carrying significant leadership responsibilities, the load can be immense. I personally understand that sometimes being everything to everyone simply isn't sustainable'. There's no doubt she will be deeply missed this year, her leadership, presence and unique skillsets are irreplaceable. At the same time, I truly admire her selfless decision. It reflects a deep understanding of the commitment required to be a Silver Fern, and her integrity to step back when she can't give it her all right now'. 'I look forward to welcoming Ameliaranne back when she is ready.' Born in Queensland and of Ngāpuhi descent, Ekenasio made the move to Wellington in 2014 to join the Central Pulse, going on to forge a remarkable international career built on resilience and determination—returning from injury, personal adversity, and motherhood to lead the Silver Ferns with distinction.
Newsroom
18-07-2025
- Sport
- Newsroom
Young stars could be Silver Ferns bolters
As another season of the ANZ Premiership nears its conclusion, eyes will be turning to the upcoming international netball season. The Silver Ferns play three matches against South Africa in September, followed by the iconic Constellation Cup against Australia in October. With star shooter Grace Nweke's potential unavailability, there's likely to be some new faces in the Ferns squad. But who's put their hand up for national selection after a shortened domestic season? LockerRoom takes a look at four players pushing for their first Ferns test cap, and two premiership rookie standouts to look out for in the future. Filda Vui's clutch super shot has been outstanding in the new format competition. Photo: Michael Bradley Photography Filda Vui Filda Vui is by no means a new face in the ANZ Premiership, making her first appearance in 2020. However, being paired with Grace Nweke at the Northern Mystics meant Vui often took a backseat when it came to scoring goals, sometimes simply used as a second feeder to Nweke. In 2025, that's all changed. When Mystics goal shoot Donnell Wallam was ruled out of part of the season with injury, a leader needed to step up in the shooting circle, and Vui did so. Vui has the highest volume of two-point shots in the domestic competition, sinking 28 from 44 attempts this season. Her calm head in the circle and connections with her midcourters have shown her to be a proficient goal attack who could see higher honours soon. An uncapped Silver Fern, Vui was named in the team for the Netball Quad Series in January 2022 but didn't take the court, and hasn't managed to crack the squad since. Saviour Tui's smile is deceiving – seen here wrestling for possession with Mystics' Catherine Hall. Photo: Michael Bradley Photography Saviour Tui Often stuck on the bench, or behind a seasoned goal shoot, Saviour Tui has made a name for herself ever since moving to the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic in 2024 – having played two seasons for the Mystics and then two for the Steel. The third-most prolific shooter in the ANZ Premiership, Tui has thrived at goal shoot alongside Silver Fern Ameliaranne Ekenasio. She's also shown her range, with 27 super shots – the second highest in the competition. While she may not have the height of other goal shooters, at 189cms, Tui makes up for it with her athleticism and strong balance on the baseline. The 23-year-old's ability to rein in feeds and stay strong under the hoop could make her a great option up against international defenders for the Silver Ferns. A former New Zealand Secondary Schools representative, Tui has been a member of the NZ A and Ferns development squads, and even played for Samoa in 2022. Georgie Edgecombe goes from strength to strength with every season in the Magic. Photo: Michael Bradley Photography Georgie Edgecombe Georgie Edgecombe is a player who's gone from strength to strength. Still growing in her fifth full season with the Magic, the midcourter's athletic skills and physical strength are an asset to her team. Often seen at wing defence, Edgecombe finished the 2025 ANZ Premiership season with an impressive 33 deflections, one of the top in the competition. She also had 13 clean intercepts, and 17 pick ups, with a never give up attitude for her side. Also with 33 feeds and 37 centre pass receives, she has shown she can be used at centre and is steady through the midcourt too. Previously a member of the NZA and Silver Ferns development squad, this could be the year Edgecombe pushes for that black dress. Carys Stythe was a spectacular signing for Steel in 2025. Photo: Michael Bradley Photography Carys Stythe Carys Stythe has been touted as a future Silver Fern for years now, after making her debut for the Mystics. But a move down south to the Southern Steel this year has seen a huge change in her game, and the call may be coming soon. Finishing top of the ladder in defensive rebounds with 21, Stythe's height in the defensive circle has made her one of the country's top goal keepers. She was a key member of the Steel team, reliable at the back of the court. A member of the Silver Ferns development squad, Stythe could very well see herself in the national team this year. But keep an eye out for former teammate Catherine Hall. Finding her feet at the Mystics after being largely kept on the bench, Hall now tops the season for deflections and intercepts and could find herself challenging some experienced players for that black dress. With Hall playing in the grand final on July 20, she still has one more game left to impress the Ferns selectors. Rookie Sophia Lafaiali'i shored up the Mystics shooting end while Wallam was injured. Photo: Mystics Sophia Lafaiali'i When Wallam went down injured in round three, the Mystics had the choice of finding an international or retired player to cover the goal shoot bib. Instead they looked to their development players, specifically 20-year old Sophia Lafaiali'i. Many thought the Mystics may struggle without Wallam, with wing attack Peta Toeava known for her pin-point accurate feeds to taller shooters. But Lafaiali'i didn't skip a beat, playing a full 60 minutes in her second game, and only missing one goal. Shooting at 93 percent accuracy, Lafaiali'i has scored 137 goals since being introduced to the Mystics side. She's also since been rewarded with a call-up to trial for the NZ U21 team to play in the Netball World Youth Cup in September. Holly Mather in action for Tactix against her sister's side, Stars. Photo: Michael Bradley Photography Holly Mather In her first fully contracted season, Holly Mather has been busy. Playing in every game for the Tactix, Mather averages 52 minutes on court per game, typically running around at centre. Mather had played for both the Marvels and the Comets in the National Netball League, before making the step up to the ANZ Premiership, joining the Stars as injury replacement last season. Being able to play for the Stars alongside older sister Lisa in the midcourt was a special moment for the family from the Far North. With a massive 202 feeds this season, Mather's error rate was very low for a new player and she slotted into the Tactix environment seamlessly. Her reliability throughout court was impressive, and the likelihood of her being snapped up for another season in the ANZ Premiership will be very high after her showings on court this year.
