Representing your rohe is about much more than pulling on a uniform. For Armani Tahuri, being selected for the Tairāwhiti Māori Under 15 Representative Netball team was an opportunity to grow both as a player and as a young leader.
The journey began long before the first whistle, with months of commitment, travelling to trainings in Tūranganui-a-Kiwa, attending team wānanga, and preparing alongside teammates who shared the same passion for netball. These experiences helped build not only fitness and game knowledge, but also lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging.
Throughout the preparation, the team embraced more than just the physical side of the game. Wānanga focused on tikanga, waiata, haka, nutrition, health and wellbeing, reinforcing the values that sit alongside representing Tairāwhiti Māori with pride. The report’s photo pages show this journey from selection, training sessions and marae-based wānanga through to tournament play in Whangārei.
Travelling to Whangārei to compete at the 39th Aotearoa Māori Netball Oranga Healthy Lifestyles National Tournament was a memorable experience. Wearing the Tairāwhiti colours, Armani proudly represented her whānau, Wairoa and her region while competing against talented players from throughout Aotearoa.
Reflecting on her experience, Armani shared that the opportunity helped her grow her skills, build strong connections and inspired her to continue working hard towards her goals in netball. Her gratitude for the support she received shines throughout her report, and she hopes her journey encourages other rangatahi to believe in themselves and chase opportunities when they arise.
WYAT is proud to support rangatahi like Armani who embrace opportunities to learn, grow and represent Wairoa with pride both on and off the court.
