“The day was enjoyed by everyone” says NINA President on the Figo Kulatea Ioane Netball Tournament for Rising Stars 2023
Photo credits: Niue Island Netball Association (NINA) President Carol Edwards
The Figo Kulatea Ioane Netball Tournament for Rising Stars 2023 took place last Saturday at the Niue Primary School grounds. This year a total of eight teams took part including Alofi, Avatele, Falekaho, Tuapa, Liku/Lakepa, Hakupu, Togulu and Classics.
The tournament was firstly opened and blessed by Lakepa Ekalesia pastor Rev. Thomas Kauie. According to the Niue Island Netball Association (NINA) President Carol Edwards, there was a march pass for the teams to judge the uniforms and judging continued throughout the day.
The top winners of the day went to Alofi Bullets who received a trophy and a total prize money of $200 sponsored by the Kulatea Ioane families. Second place went to Hakupu Stars receiving $150 in prize money. Third place went to Avatele Purple Tunas with $100 and fourth place went to Tuapa Juniors with $50 prize money.
Consolation prizes went to Togulu, Classics, Liku/Lakepa and Falekaho.
Taking first place for the best uniform was Hakupu, second place to Togulu and third place went to Tuapa.
Most Valuable Player (MVP) was also recognised for each time. For Alofi, the MVP title went to Asher Rex. Avatele went to Kinimotu Hetutu, Falekaho’s MVP was Jessilyn Tohovaka, Tuapa went to Jethro Okesene, Hakupu’s MVP was Heimana Hekau, Togulu went to Jeffery H, Classics went to Tilly Fuhiniu Viviani and for the Liku/Lakepa team was Matagiheiki Vilitama Smith.
According to Carol, there were no incidents on the day but only one minor injury.
“The day was enjoyed by everyone and NINA thanks all the umpires and helpers that made the day a success.”
Next on the NINA calendar is the one day tournament for the adults that is scheduled to take place on Saturday 22nd April of this month.
Carol told BCN News that there will be a Hakupu team from New Zealand that will be arriving on the 17th of April this month to participate in that tournament. The team includes an open women’s team, men’s team and a mixed team.
