Marist Netball Palmerston North

Marist Marist Netball, as it is now known, has been a force in the Manawatu Netball scene for over half a century. Originally called St. Joseph's Old Girls (coached by Betty Steffenson) and later named Convent Old Girls, it became Marist in 1987. However, the club's players continue to wear the traditional black and white colours that are symbolic of the catholic Sisters of Mercy Order. This Order made a huge contribution to both primary and secondary education in New Zealand including Palmerston North from the 1920's until 1987 when the last nun (Sr Clare Vaughan) was farewelled at St Peter's College. The Sisters passed on their love of netball to all the girls in their charge and thus created a foundation for Marist Netball and kindred clubs throughout the country.

Probably the best years of Marist Netball were in the 80’s when the club had a dozen or more teams playing each season. However as was the trend of the times, when other sports became popular, the number of teams dropped away. However, we currently field 12 teams from Premier grades through to Social.