Desire-Leigh Edwards is a talented young netballer from Wairoa whose passion and commitment to the sport is clear in everything she does. In June 2025, she received support from the Wairoa Young Achievers Trust to support her with travel costs and training fees as she pursued higher-level competition representing Hawke’s Bay.
With this support, Desire-Leigh was able to take part in three major tournaments across Tauranga, Palmerston North, and New Plymouth — gaining not only valuable on-court experience but also growing her confidence, discipline, and resilience. These tournaments gave her a chance to test her skills against some of the top players in her age group, build new friendships, and proudly represent her rohe on a bigger stage.
Behind every game was a lot of hard work — including countless training sessions, travel days, and moments of pushing through both physical and mental challenges.
This journey has only strengthened her love for netball and her desire to continue developing as both an athlete and a role model for other young wāhine in our community. 
