The 2025 Marie Little Shield is the second time Tasmania competed in the national All-Abilities competition. The team shone on and off court, displaying incredible sportsmanship to teammates and competition alike.
There were some returning faces from our 2024 team, alongside some brand-new ones. The team quickly built connections throughout the court during their first two games on Day 1. While the team had been training since May, the experience of playing in a different state, representing your state is one that takes a while to get used to! All 8 states and territories were sorted into two pools. Pool A: ACT, NSW, QLD, WA and Pool B: TAS, VIC, NT, SA.
Game 1 began against the very experienced Victoria. The athletes took their time to get a feel for the game, with some excellent pockets of play. The final score VIC 34 - TAS 4.
The Emeralds second match of the tournament was against South Australia, another experienced side. Improving every quarter, Tassie finished this match SA - 30 TAS -5.
Day 2 was a different story entirely. Having had a chance to settle in, the team started out with a bang winning their first match against the Northern Territory, TAS 18 def NT 5.
The second match saw a bit of a mix up with Tasmania playing a team from Pool A. The day ended with WA 29 and TAS 10. Finishing in 5th, Tassie had locked in a spot in the 2nd Semi Final against ACT.
The Emeralds went into the match cool, calm and collected. They were ready to secure their spot in the 5th place play off's later that day. A solid match from the start, Tassie won 24-10.
The next and final match of the tournament was the 5th place pay-off against QLD. A stressful one for those on the sidelines, the score went back and forth between these two evenly matched teams. Tasmania had a stellar last quarter to lock in the win, TAS 12 - QLD 10.
The 2025 Marie Little Shield was a celebration of inclusion, determination, and teamwork. Tasmania’s athletes gave it their all and walked away with pride, growth, and a well-earned 5th place finish.
Congratulations to the team, coaches, and support crew for your hard work. You all made Tasmania proud!
Thank you to our major partner Aurora Energy for their ongoing support. Thank you as well to our partners Bolands IGA Newnham, the Tasmanian Institute of Sport, Confident Girls Foundation, Cripps Nubake Pty Ltd, & Fitzpatricks Pharmacy for their generous contributions.
