We caught up with Under 17 Captain Olivia Burnham about her experience at the NNZ Under 17 Nationals in Palmerston North. Olivia plays Goal Defence and Goal Keeper.

CNC: Firstly, congratulations on representing Christchurch Netball Centre this year! Is this the first time you’ve been in a CNC representative team?

OB: I have been lucky enough to have been selected in the U14/U15/U17 and this years U17 CNC representative teams - so four years including this year. The U17 2017 tournament was significant, placing 4th in the national tournament was a massive achievement for Christchurch. 

CNC: Was there anything different about this year’s Tournament?

OB: There were only two players who were in the 2017 U17 team last year that were in the team this year, therefore there were a few players who hadn’t had the experience of playing at a national level against the North Island girls. 

CNC: What was the most difficult game you played this Tournament and why?

OB: The most difficult game would have definitely been against North Otago as that was the deciding game of weather or not we would be in top 16 or bottom 16. There were quite a few on court changes due to a few injuries that occurred which changed the dynamics. 

CNC: What was the highlight of Tournament this year?

OB: Playing in a National tournament as captain would be the highlight. It was really cool seeing the girls in the team experience what it’s like at a national tournament. Also, the bond within the team would have to be another highlight - we all got along really well! 

CNC: What do you enjoy most about being at a National Tournament?

OB: I love being part of a team of talented players and getting to know them on and off the court - Playing against the North Island teams. North Islanders always bring a different style of game play- it’s fast and smart which is challenging in a way which helps myself as a player develop my game. It’s also really good experience! 

CNC: Describe yourself in three words.

OB: Determined, honest and organised.

CNC: Please tell us something we might not know about you?

I have really big feet- like size 13!!! 

Thanks Olivia and thank you for representing CNC in 2018! Olivia is also in the Baby Beko netball squad and in her second year in the Pathway to Podium programme for athletics.

Article added: Sunday 09 September 2018