Maliaki confident in netball stocks

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The National, Wednesday July 17th, 2013

 PNG Netball Federation president Julienne Leka-Maliaki says the junior netball programme is aiming to identify and develop players for international tournaments beginning with the 2015 Pacific Games.

Currently, the U21 junior national squad is preparing for the World Youth Netball Championship in Scotland from Aug 22-31.

“Riding off the success of our national team the Pacific MMI Pepes, PNG Netball is optimistic that this next generation of players, with so much raw talent will do well at the world champs,” Maliaki said. 

It is also encouraging to note that 50% of the U21 train-on-squad comprises of a number of the current Pepes which will add value in game play and court experience.

Maliaki said that the federation was confident in the current batch of U21s many of whom are expected to make the Pepes squad for the Games.

U21 national train-on squad: Tau Galewa, Rayleen Andrew, Margaret Eka, Ceslie Rapilla, Vili Nopiri, Courtney Abel, Cathy Herea, Kimberly Alex, Paruru Vaieke, Nerrie Adula, Kapa Malia, Jephath Tulapi, Winnifred Parker, Shannah Dringo, Aiva Suve, Edea Gamu, Marypaul Beulher.

The 17-member team will undergo a final phase of training this month before the final 12-member side is finalised.