Marist U21 Teams Shine at Oceania 21U Championships

The 2026 WPNZ Under 21 National Championships proved to be a memorable campaign for Marist, with outstanding performances across both the men’s and women’s competitions, highlighted by a National Championship title for the Marist U21 Red Men and a pair of impressive 4th-place finishes.

Our Marist Under 21 Women delivered a highly creditable tournament, finishing 4th in the nation. A very special thank you goes to Justin Pickering, our Coach Development Manager, who stepped in at very short notice after the team’s coach was unfortunately unable to attend through illness. Having only just returned to New Zealand from Portugal, where he served as Assistant Coach of the New Zealand U18 Men’s team at the World Championships, Justin answered the call without hesitation. His commitment to our athletes and our club is greatly appreciated.

The Marist Under 21 Red Men reached the pinnacle of the competition, claiming the 2026 WPNZ Under 21 National Championship with a 12–9 victory over Tauranga in the grand final. The team produced their most complete performance when it mattered most. From outstanding goalkeeping through to dominant centre-forward play, every member contributed to a composed and disciplined championship-winning effort. Under the steady leadership of coach Paul Swindells, the team remained focused throughout the tournament and delivered on the biggest stage.

A special congratulations goes to Josh Anderson, who was deservedly named Tournament MVP following an outstanding championship campaign.

Marist’s success extended beyond the gold-medal-winning side. The Marist Under 21 Blue Men also enjoyed an exceptional tournament, finishing a highly respectable 4th. Featuring many younger players stepping up into Under 21 competition, the team exceeded expectations by reaching the bronze medal match. They came agonisingly close to securing a podium finish, narrowly falling 15–16 to Canterbury in a thrilling contest. A huge thank you to coach Phill Hargraves for guiding this talented young group and helping them achieve such an impressive result.

Perhaps the most pleasing aspect of the championship wasn’t just the results, but the way all Marist teams supported one another throughout the weekend. Whether poolside cheering each other on or celebrating one another’s achievements, the Under 21 squad displayed the camaraderie, unity, and spirit that define the Marist whānau. That commitment to each other is every bit as important as the medals and placings earned in the pool.

Congratulations to all our players, coaches, managers, supporters, officials, and whānau on a fantastic national championship campaign. To come away with National Gold, a 4th-place finish for our Women, and a 4th-place finish for our Blue Men is an outstanding achievement and one the entire Marist community can be proud of.

Well done, Marist! 🏆💙🤍