Hudson Park High’s first team netball side showed remarkable resilience to be crowned champions of the 2026 Collegiate Netball Festival after recovering from an opening-round defeat to lift the prestigious title after a thrilling 22-20 victory over Hoërskool Despatch in the final.
The Hudsonians began their campaign with a 25-17 loss to Hoërskool Despatch but bounced back in impressive fashion, defeating DF Malherbe, Clarendon, Brandwag, Nico Malan, Alexander Road and Reddam Waterfall to book their place in the semi-finals.
They then edged hosts Collegiate 20-18 in a thrilling semi-final before earning a rematch against Hoërskool Despatch in the championship decider.
Determined to reverse their earlier result, Hudson Park produced a composed performance to claim a hard-fought 22-20 victory and secure the festival title.
Head of Netball Nicole Cronje praised the team’s determination and character throughout the tournament.
“The character this team showed was exceptional. After our opening defeat, the girls responded with belief, discipline and an incredible work ethic,” said Cronje.
“They grew in confidence with every match, and to beat the team that had defeated us earlier in the tournament made the victory even more special. I couldn’t be prouder of this group and the way they represented Hudson Park.”
Results: Hoërskool Despatch 25-17 Hudson Park, Hudson Park 22-11 DF Malherbe, Hudson Park 19-10 Clarendon, Hudson Park 22-15 Brandwag, Hudson Park 26-13 Nico Malan, Hudson Park 18-4 Alexander Road, Hudson Park 26-14 Reddam Waterfall, Semi-final: Hudson Park 20-18 Collegiate.
Final: Hudson Park 22-20 Hoërskool Despatch.
