The Sri Lankan Interschool Past Pupils’ Netball Tournament 2024 took place at the Dandenong Showgrounds in Dandenong, Australia on Monday, March 11, 2024.
The Maliyadeva Girls’ College, Devians Victoria Chapter, hosted the tournament for the second consecutive year. A total of 15 schools participated, fielding a combined 18 teams. The champions this time around were Maliyadeva College Kurunegala.
Last year, St. Joseph’s Girls’ School, Nugegoda, emerged victorious in the inaugural tournament. This year, they returned as defending champions under the leadership of Captain Manjula Hettiarachchi. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, they were defeated in the semi-finals by Kandy Girls High School, resulting in a third-place finish for them in the tournament. All the players at St. Joseph’s Girls’ School had been national players during their schooling days. However, that particular day stood out as the pinnacle of their achievements.
Two players received special awards in the tournament: Priscilla Koch excelled in defense, and Premila Fernando was honored as the best center court player.
The team received enthusiastic support from a sizable cheer squad comprised of former students, family members, and friends.
Miss Petite, the current president of the Josephines Club of Australia, expressed her gratitude and congratulations to the Maliyadeva Girls’ College Devians Victoria Chapter in an interview with Serendib News. She commended them for organizing and successfully executing the tournament. Miss Petite extended special thanks to all the players, their families, and everyone who came out to support their school on that memorable day.
