Geraldton took over netball scene with sides travelling for Midwest Gascoyne Regional Champs on the weekend

Geraldton became the State’s netball mecca over the weekend after hosting the highly anticipated Mid West Gascoyne Regional Championships, with 44 teams competing across six divisions.

Netballers from all age ranges took to the Eighth Street courts for the regional championships over July 27-28.

Teams came from across WA to compete, with sides including Exmouth, Morawa, Kalbarri, Northampton, Dongara, and Mingenew, as well as local clubs and schools from the Geraldton Netball Association.

Each division saw teams go head-to-head in pool games, culminating in grand final matches from the two best performing sides.

In the A-grade under-14 girls’ grand final, the Falcons triumphed over Lightning with a commanding 30-16 victory.

In a highly energetic B-grade final, Turquoise Coast emerged victorious against Kazuals, getting up 26-19.

In the 17+ open division, the Pumas claimed the title after going undefeated, defeating the Falcons 34-25.

The under-16s A-grade decider between Lightning and Pumas was one of the weekend’s standout games, ending in a draw after regulation time and leading to a thrilling tiebreaker, with Lightning winning 23-21.

The 16s B-grade final was a well-fought battle, with Kazuals winning 28-22 against North Midlands.

In the under-12s division one, Wandina beat Mount Tarcoola 15-13 while in division two, Geraldton Primary triumphed over Mount Tarcoola 23-22.

Parents were enthusiastic about the experience and the positive impact on their daughters.

“It was incredible to see how much my daughter gained from participating in this event,” said Sarah Thompson, whose daughter played for the Lightning team.

“The level of competition was excellent, and the friendships she formed were just as valuable.”

John Matthews, another parent of a competitor, echoed the sentiment of the championships.

“The organisation and spirit of the weekend were fantastic, my daughter would play all-year round if she could, and she had an amazing time both on and off the court,” he said.

“This event has really inspired her to keep pushing herself and improving her game.”