ANZ Premiership gets local with the Barfoot & Thompson Northern Challenge

The two northernmost teams in the ANZ Premiership – the SKYCITY Mystics and Northern Stars – now have a little something extra on the line for when they meet this season with a newly announced ‘Northern Challenge’ trophy up for grabs.

Sponsored by property company Barfoot & Thompson, the trophy will be contested by the teams who will face off three times during the 2018 regular season at their home stadiums in Henderson and Takanini, with the ‘Challenge’ trophy being awarded following the third game on 22 July.

Netball Northern CEO Nicole Spratt says that the trophy gives the teams something extra to play for and fans another reason to travel across town.

“We know that there are many netball fans who give their support to the SKYCITY Mystics and the Northern Stars, while others have strong allegiance to one team.

This challenge will add a little spice to the competition for players and fans alike.

”Fans are invited to join in the challenge and go in the draw to win a VIP experience for four from Barfoot & Thompson including high tea with players from both teams, followed by spa treatment and dinner at a SKYCITY restaurant.

To be eligible, fans must attend all three ‘Northern Challenge’ games and get their ‘challenge passport’ stamped each time. The winner will be drawn live on court on 22 July.

Barfoot & Thompson CEO Peter Thompson says that it makes sense for a company that specialises in the Auckland and Northland market to connect with teams that train, play and represent the North in the number one sport played by girls and women in New Zealand.

“The Barfoot & Thompson team has been a proud supporter of netball for over 10 years, and we’re really pleased to lend our support to a competition that’s all about celebrating the best of netball in the region.”

Barfoot & Thompson Northern Challenge

Round 2 - Sunday 13 May 4:10pm, The Trusts Arena, Henderson (Mother’s Day)
Round 10 - Sunday 8 July, 4:10pm The Trusts Arena, Henderson
Round 12 - Sunday 22 July, 4:10pm, Bruce Pulman Park, Takanini