Mainland Netball is proud to share that two new members from our Zone have joined the Netball New Zealand Youth Board. This is a valuable opportunity for these young wāhine to grow their governance knowledge and help ensure youth voice continues to shape the future of our sport. We are pleased to introduce Olivia James and Savannah van Dyk, who each bring their own passion, experience and perspective to the role.

Olivia James

Kia Ora, My name is Olivia James and I am from Cambridge. I am currently studying Health Science and Public Health at the University of Canterbury. I have been actively involved with netball through playing, coaching, umpiring, volunteering and working with Magic and NETFIT.

I love the relationships you make through netball both on and off the court. I also love the challenge and competitiveness that netball brings. I am very excited to be part of the Netball New Zealand Youth Board and for the opportunity to give back by helping foster a positive, fun and inclusive environment for netball. 

 

 

Savannah van Dyk

Kia ora, my name is Savannah. I’m 19 and a proud Christchurch local, currently in my second year of university studying a Bachelor of Laws alongside a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Psychology.

Netball has been such a big part of my life, not just as a sport but as a community that’s shaped who I am. Through my journey, I’ve built lifelong friendships and connected with some of the most genuine, supportive people. It’s this sense of whānau and belonging that makes netball so special to me.

I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the Netball New Zealand Youth Board, where I’m passionate about creating opportunities for young people and helping make the game more inclusive and accessible for everyone. I'm excited to work and collaborate with others who feel just as strongly and passionately about giving back to the sport that has given me and us so much. Alongside this, I serve on the Christchurch Netball Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Group, and I’m continuing to grow as an umpire as I work towards my New Zealand Umpire qualification. I’m really excited about the future and the chance to keep contributing to a community that I care so deeply about.

Article added: Tuesday 26 May 2026