Tactix Take On Southern Rival In Mother's Day Clash

When the VIP Frames & Trusses Tactix take on the Southern Steel in their first clash of the ANZ premiership this Sunday, they will be taking shot at a game-one win, with the added pressure to collect a new trophy honouring the fierce South Island rivalry.

The Mainland Tactix go unbeaten by the Southern Steel since 2021 and when the teams last met in round 11 last season, the Tactix claimed a 71-47 victory in Invercargill.

Matches between the two South Island sides are usually hard-fought and close-run encounters with Tactix Head Coach Donna Wilkins expecting a fantastic, action packed encounter.

“It’s great to be back home in Christchurch, the team are stoked for the first game to be here but we only have five home games and we need to get the first one under our belts as we know it will be harder to win away from home,” Wilkins said.

Preseason preparation has been critical for Wilkins, with Ellie Bird, Charli Fidler, Holly Mather, Martina Salmon and Parris Petera who are either debuting or making their 2025 return to the red and black side.

“Out of our ten players, we have had five changes and I didn't know how that was going to go, but it has paid off and I am really happy with how the team has come together ahead of game one,” she said.

The team have been practicing the new two-point super shot, with vice captain Karin Burger taking a ‘critical analysis’ approach to the rule changes.

“The first game is going to be really exciting, we have an opportunity to incorporate the new two-point shot into our game, if it is safe to do so but we won’t take unnecessary risks that could give possession to the other team,” Burger said.

Tactix charity partner, Cancer Society Southern will be showcased at Sunday’s game, with Chief Executive Nicola Coom, saying the Tactix partnership elevates the charity’s efforts to support, educate and prevent cancer.

“Cancer Society Southern is thrilled to be partnering with the Tactix, marking an exciting chapter for both organisations,” Coom said.

One lucky fan will have the chance to walk away with a $660 dining experience at Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat when donating to the Cancer Society when arriving at the game.

In honour of many players and fans being affected by cancer, The Tactix and Steel will be vying for a new piece of silverware, with The Hutton Family Trophy up for grabs any time the two southern teams play one another.

The trophy honours Canterbury netball representatives, Kelly and Megan Hutton; Kelly’s life was sadly cut short in 2023, after a courageous and inspiring battle against ovarian cancer.

The Mainland Tactix takes on the Southern Steel at Wolfbrook Arena in Christchurch, 7pm Sunday May 11. Tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.

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