Netball New Zealand has today confirmed the 12 athletes selected to represent the New Zealand U21 team at the upcoming Netball World Youth Cup 2025 (NWYC), following a comprehensive trial process held from 30 July to 1 August.
The NZU21 programme, which has been in place for the past two years, has provided a critical development platform for emerging talent. Last week's trials marked the final step in the selection process, from which the squad has now been confirmed.
The Emerging Talent Selection Panel – comprising Adrienne Morrin, Robin Manihera, and Deb Tasi-Cordtz – together with NZU21 Head coach Julie Seymour and Assistant coach Te Aroha Keenan, have finalised the team that will travel to Gibraltar for the pinnacle international event for under-21 netballers, taking place from 19–28 September 2025.
The final team reflects strong representation across the country’s Zones and ANZ Premiership teams, with selectors impressed by the athletes’ athleticism, game sense, and potential to progress to elite level.
2025 NZU21 Netball World Youth Cup Team
- Amelia Walmsley – Pulse
- Charlotte Manley – Mystics
- Ella Southby – South
- Josie Seymour – Mainland
- Kaiya Kepa – WBOP
- Kate Taylor – Magic
- Khanye-Lii Munro-Nonoa – Steel
- Laura Balmer – Pulse
- Losa Fifita – Northern
- Sarah Guiney – Central
- Serina Daunakamakama – Steel
- Taiana Day – Mainland
Non-Travelling Reserves:
- Avah Sila – Northern
- Stacey Ah Van – Northern
- Summer Temu – Steel
NZU21 head coach Julie Seymour described the selection process as both exciting and fiercely competitive.
“We’ve seen tremendous growth and maturity from this group over recent months, and the final 12 have shown not only talent, but consistency, resilience, and a genuine pride in pulling on the black dress,” Seymour said.
“This team offers a strong balance across the court. The experience many of these players have gained through the ANZ Premiership has been instrumental in their development, while others have really stepped up through consistent game time in the Synergy Hair Netball League. That regular exposure to tough, high-level netball each week has been invaluable. We’re proud of the depth we’re building and confident this group will represent us with distinction in Gibraltar.”
Seymour also acknowledged the important contribution of the wider squad.
“With our non-travelling reserves – Avah, Stacey and Summer – it is reassuring to know that, should a replacement be needed, the options are strong.”
“I would like to thank all the ANZ Premiership teams and Zone coaches, physios and trainers for the time, energy and effort they have put into these young athletes. The development of these players has been a collective effort, and every Zone is represented across this group of players and management,” she said.
The team now enters the final phase of preparation before departing for Gibraltar, where this team will aim to win the title New Zealand last won in 2017.