The national Under 21 netball team is on their way to the Netball World Youth Cup 2025 in Gibraltar with players selected from New Zealand, Australia and Samoa. 

The camp served as the phase of selection to determine the players who will represent Samoa on the world stage in September at Gibraltar. Players were tested through fitness assessments, intense match play, strength and conditioning, and team-building activities both on and off the court.

Head coach Paula Stuart said the journey to the World Youth Cup began two years ago. She said winning the regional qualifiers in the Cook Islands was already a massive achievement for Netball Samoa. 

"This campaign has been driven by passion, discipline, and national pride. These trials were critical in identifying the next wave of talent and have been made possible by the unwavering support of our Samoan communities in Samoa, Australia, and New Zealand," she said.

"I also acknowledge with deep gratitude the leadership of our President, Peseta Noumea Simi, and the tireless efforts of our CEO, Justine Samu, Manager Tusi Aliitasi Faasootau-Ale, and the dedicated team behind the scenes, who were Rosabel Tuatagaloa, Jordan Lameta, Aniva Tuilagi, and Alna Pavitt for communications.  

"Special thanks also to Natalie Mathews for her support in both the selection process and overall delivery of the camp. This team reflects not just talent, but the growing legacy of Netball Samoa, a campaign that unites and uplifts our community.”

Assistant Coach Natalie Mathews, who also leads the national team Tifamoana added that the camp marks more than just the final trial, it symbolises growth, connection, and pride.

"Bringing our girls home, some for the very first time, created a powerful sense of identity and belonging. It’s not only about who they are as athletes, but who they are as young women, grounded in culture and family," she said. 

Under the leadership of Stuart and Mathews, the trialists were challenged both physically and mentally. The emphasis was not only on individual performance but also on building team chemistry and preparing for the pressure of international competition.

The journey to Gibraltar is underway, and Samoa’s future netball talent is prepared to take the stage.