02/09/2026
Wainuiomata Newspaper Wednesday 2 September issue โ๐พ๐๐ฅณ
Ulalei Netball Dominates Championships with Five Grand Final Victories
Ulalei Netball Club has capped off a remarkable season in spectacular fashion, claiming five championship titles on Grand Final day, the most of any club in the competition.
Leading the charge was Premier 1 side Ulalei Aute (TIME Insurance) who secured a dramatic victory after trailing at the end of the first three quarters.
With changes made heading into the final quarter and the crowd lifting the team's energy, Aute relied on their experience and game smarts to wear down St Oran's and force crucial errors. The defending champions proved too strong in the end, edging St Oran's 44-42 and completing an impressive three-peat championship.
Ulalei Puฤlulu headed into the Senior 1 final against High School Old Girls' top team having not beaten them all season. However, after knocking out Convent Old Girls in the semi-final, another side they had not beaten, confidence was high.
The final was a nail-biter with both teams locked up at 14-all at halftime. In the last quarter defensive pressure produced a crucial turnover that helped swing momentum in Ulalei's favour. Puฤlulu held their nerve to secure a thrilling 30-28 victory, for a back to back championship, much to the delight of their large group of supporters.
For a team that began the season with three straight losses, claiming the championship is a testament to the players' hard work and the belief shown by their management in their players and their game plan.
Ulalei Moso'oi exploded out of the blocks in their final against fellow club side Ulalei Wainui J7s, racing to a commanding 20-9 halftime lead.
Drawing on their previous grand final experience, Moso'oi controlled the game from start to finish to secure a convincing 32-20 victory and back-to-back titles.
Ulalei Wainui J7s fought bravely throughout and can be extremely proud of their efforts. In their first season together, the young side reached a grand final and gained valuable experience on the big stage.
The lessons learned throughout the season will undoubtedly strengthen the group moving forward as they continue to build on their skills, and strengthen their combinations.
Ulalei Fuesina (Nuku Ora) entered the Senior 4 final as underdogs against the hot favourites Upper Hutt Rams who had been unbeaten all season.
Seeking back-to-back championships of their own, Fuesina had other ideas. Spurred on by a passionate support base, the young side played with no fear and all the confidence in the world to establish a commanding 21-11 halftime lead.
The Rams were unable to recover from their slow start, with Fuesina maintaining control to bring home a decisive 35-23 victory and another championship banner for the club.
The newly formed Ulalei Teuila won its first championship title with an impressive victory over Hutt Valley Marist in the Reserve 2 final.
Bringing together a number of players new to the club alongside existing Ulalei members, the team quickly developed into a formidable combination.
Entering the final unbeaten and as favourites, Teuila delivered on expectations, leading from start to finish in a well-deserved 30-25 win.
Ulalei Nonu were unable to replicate their memorable semi-final performance in the Reserve 4 final, going down 32-19 to Upper Hutt Maidstone United.
Despite the result, reaching a grand final is an achievement in itself, and the team was grateful for the opportunity to experience Grand Final day. The season provided valuable memories and a platform to build upon for next season.
A very proud President of Ulalei, Sina Tamaali'i said "One of Ulalei's super powers on Grand Final day was its supporters, who turned out in their droves. Teams that were not competing in finals turned out in force to support their clubmates, reflecting the strong whanau culture that defines the club." Ulalei Mฤlili (HEDZ for Hair), Puataunofo (MUZZY Shirts), Ifilele (Nuku Ora), Laga'ali and Matalafi were among those proudly backing their fellow teams throughout the day.
The Ulalei faithful were in full voice armed with signs, chants and the unmistakable sound of the conch shell. Their energy transformed the venue into what many affectionately referred to as "Ulalei Stadium".
The club extends its sincere thanks to all whฤnau, friends, former members, foundation members and supporters who contributed to another memorable Grand Final Day. Among those present enjoying the spectacle were His Worship Mayor Fauono Ken Laban, Silver Fern Saviour Tui and MP Ginny Andersen.
Ulalei also acknowledges Ulalei Wainuiomata Sport for providing the branding gear that enhanced the club's presence at the stadium. The club further thanks principal sponsors TIME Insurance, Hedz for Hair and Muzzy Shirts, along with funders One Foundation, Hutt Mana Charitable Trust and Nuku Ora.
Ulalei Wainuiomata Netball is grateful to the many local businesses that continue to support its progress including Coffee at the Strand for the grand final coffee shout.
