Columba College coach Janine Southby is not sure what to expect at the national secondary school championships in Napier next week.
With five players missing from the team which placed sixth at the tournament last year, Southby thought the school might need a year to rebuild.
But the Steel co-coach has been pleasantly surprised with her side's form and is hoping for the best.
Columba finished third at the South Island secondary schools tournament and has been drawn in pool A for the national championships, alongside defending champion Mt Albert Grammar, St Mary's College and Waimea College.
"You are never quite sure what to expect at this level, because teams can change quite dramatically from year to year," Southby said.
"But if we can stay fully fit and remained focus, well, we got in the top six last year so the girls are certainly aiming for that."
Mt Albert Grammar is certain to present a stern challenge, but Columba beat Waimea College at the South Island tournament and will be confident going into that game. That means Columba's opening game against St Mary's on Tuesday morning shapes as an important fixture.
Southby said her side would probably need to win two of its three round-robin fixtures to guarantee a top-two placing in pool A. After that the school will have to keep winning crossover matches to make the final on Friday.
Columba has some good players in key positions. Talented shooter Bridget Thayer - younger sister of Steel defender Louise Thayer - will shoulder the bulk of the scoring responsibilities.
Busy midcourter Sophie Napper is a player with a bright future and the athletic Renaye Flockton is a very deceptive defender.
"They have done really well this year and have sort of exceeded what I expected from them. They are a pretty gutsy and determined side and, if we focus on what we do well, we will be fine," Southby said.
Schools netball
Columba College draw
October 11: v Saint Mary's College, 9.30am; v Waimea College, 2.10pm
October 12: v Mt Albert Grammar, 12.30pm
October 13: Crossover games
October 14: Playoffs and final
