Marist Netball is in good heart. The Marist Netball Management Committee contacts are:

Club Captain: Sarah Geurtjens
Treasurer: Liz Longley
Phone: 021 923 369
Email: maristnetball@gmail.com

Links
www.netballmanawatu.org.nz

History
Marist Netball, as it is now known, has been a force in the Manawatu Netball scene for over half a century. Originally called St. Joseph's Old Girls (coached by Betty Steffenson) and later named Convent Old Girls, it became Marist in 1987. However, the club's players continue to wear the traditional black and white colours that are symbolic of the catholic Sisters of Mercy Order. This Order made a huge contribution to both primary and secondary education in New Zealand including Palmerston North from the 1920's until 1987 when the last nun (Sr Clare Vaughan) was farewelled at St Peter's College. The Sisters passed on their love of sports including netball to all the girls in their charge and thus created a foundation for Marist Netball and kindred clubs throughout the country.

In Palmerston North Sister Ruth Oakley (formerly Sr M. de Sales) started St James School in 1958. An outstanding tennis player herself of Davis Cup class, Sr Ruth also fostered the development of netball. Those who have contibuted significantly to Marist Netball over the years include the Kreft and Butler families, Les Pyne, Jean Harnett and Glynis Lye.

Probably the best years of Marist Netball were in the 80's when the club had a dozen or more teams playing each season. However, as was the trend of the times when other sports became popular, the number of teams dropped away. Currently we field five teams from Premier to Social. These days, in the context of the regional game, we tend to think that four or five teams is a very satisfactory level of player strength for the club.

Netball fashions have changed over the years but our teams are well turned out and take pride in their modern, stylish gear.

To find out when our teams are playing this weekend click here