Unbeknown to her, Aya’s late mother, Kate, who died from cancer in 2018, had also won the South Island title with Marlborough Girls’ High School in 1988.
Seeing it prompted a mixture of emotions for the 17-year-old.
"A little bit sad to be honest, but also really cool that we have held the same trophy and played the same sport that I know she loved and I love," Aya said.
Heading into the final against Nayland College, Aya was none the wiser her mother had previously won the title until her grandmother told her after the final whistle.
Winning the title 56-43 — especially after the goal defence was injured in the quarterfinals of last year’s tournament — was a special moment.
"It was quite emotional.
"I felt proud to be captain of the team and be in this moment with everyone.
"It just felt pretty unreal, to be honest."
Aya’s family has done more than most to honour their matriarch’s memory, starting the Kate Moetaua Foundation which raises money for Wakatipu students interested in arts and sports.
The foundation, which started in 2018 and is now run by Aya’s older sister, Anika, helps fulfil Mrs Moetaua’s wish to provide opportunities for young people to thrive in her two main passions: sport and arts, having been the head of drama at Wakatipu High School.
Aya, who is originally from Queenstown and boards at St Hilda’s, loved seeing people in her community benefit from the foundation.
"The money kind of just helps people get further.
"It’s really cool and to see people also that I grew up around helping them. People I went to primary school with that are now at Wakatipu."
St Hilda’s will now play at the national secondary school championships late next month.
Columba College also booked their spot after finishing fourth.
