198 teams from across Aotearoa travelled to Palmerston North to compete in the highly anticipated National Senior Secondary School Volleyball Championships.
With 100 Boys’ teams and 98 Girls’ teams spread across seven divisions and two venues, Central Energy Trust Arena and Massey University Courts, the city was buzzing with volleyball action. While matches didn’t officially kick off until Monday the 24th, the excitement began early with teams arriving on Sunday to witness our Volley Ferns and Volley Blacks go head-to-head in an exhibition match before the Opening Ceremony. The crowd packed out the arena, setting the tone for the week ahead.
As the competition unfolded, the intensity only ramped up, especially for teams chasing gold in Division 1. Friday’s finals brought the heat.
First up, the Girls' Division 1 Final saw Rangitoto College make their third straight finals appearance, this time up against a fired-up St Margaret’s College squad. Despite facing the reigning champs, the Christchurch-based team held their nerve and delivered a dominant three-set performance to claim the title. St Margaret’s had a strong campaign leading into the final and were one of four Christchurch teams to reach a semi this year, a huge showing for the region.
Not long after, the Boys’ Division 1 Final lit up the show court. Tauranga Boys' College entered the match off the back of a nail-biting five-set semifinal against Hillcrest High that had the crowd absolutely electric. In a repeat of last year’s gold medal match, it was Tauranga Boys taking on Rangitoto once again. Both sides threw everything at it with monster rallies, unreal digs, and next-level hustle, but it was Tauranga Boys who came out on top, winning in straight sets to seal the championship.
Tournament Teams
A Massive Ngā Mihi to the Crew Behind the Scenes
We couldn’t have pulled off this event without the incredible support from our community. A heartfelt thank you to the volunteers, referees, and kaimahi who gave their time and energy to make this week such a success. And a huge shoutout to Kelsey and the crew from Volleyball Manawatū, Sport Manawatū, Central Energy Trust Arena, Bayleys, Caltex, New Zealand Carbon Farming, Whakaata Māori, Apollo Projects, and all the amazing local businesses of Palmerston North who got behind the kaupapa. Your support fuels our sport and keeps the wairua of our events strong. Thank you!
For more media if you missed out! Check out the youtube channels below for the full streams of games; as well as our Social Media platforms on Instagram and Facebook - @volleyballnewzealand
