Katanning Netball Association 12 and under side reaches semifinals of Great Southern Regional Championships

Katanning had a semi-break from normal fixtures, however Katanning Netball Association sent three junior teams to compete in 2024 Great Southern Regional Championships in Albany.

This annual event is something Katanning loves to be a part of as it showcases all the associations around that many have family and friends playing and participating in.

KNA had a 12 and under, 14 and under and a 16 and under team this year.

The representatives were organised by KNA development officer Kelly Holzknecht and umpire development officer Georgia Robinson.

Such an event takes a massive amount of organising on many levels and these two, along with coaches Kirsty Flugge and Tania Edwards, worked incredible hours to get the teams to Albany.

The 12s had some great contested games and started on the Friday night against Ongerup with their first win.

An opening ceremony was held for all associations to parade their chosen team along with their banner on Saturday morning and included a team chant as well.

This year the 12s represented KNA and with smiles from ear to ear and each one dressed to impress in their uniforms, they paraded and chanted their little hearts out brilliantly.

Games commenced and it was a mighty tough day for all three teams.

The 12s had two games to complete for the day against Albany and Esperance, the girls came out with one win and one draw.

Four games for the 14s with an even number of wins and losses, it was nail-biting in all four games.

Having Esperance, Albany twice and Narrogin to compete against gave the girls some tough competition but they produced some fine play netball for the spectators to enjoy.

The 16s were hit with a few tough injuries early in the day but this did not stop the team from coming together with true spirit.

It was fantastic to see their determination to give it their all in three competitive games but Albany, Narrogin and Esperance proved too strong.

Finals were held on Sunday, the 12s had their semifinal against Denmark.

The girls fell behind narrowly as Denmark claimed the win.

The 14s had some energy left after Saturday and came in ready for anything and played Kojonup in a hard but fun contest like they do locally each week.

The KNA came out with a nice win over their rivals.

Injuries were still a factor for the 16s but that didn’t stop the rest of the team giving it their all.

Up against a tough Denmark, our girls were brilliant, and worked hard as a team throughout but unfortunately couldn’t get the win.

Netball will resume at the Katanning Leisure Centre this Saturday, August 3.