Mainland Tactix

The Mainland Tactix are a professional netball team based in Christchurch, New Zealand. They are one of the five teams that are a part of the ANZ Premiership, New Zealand’s elite netball league. They formerly featured in the ANZ Championship before it was discontinued in 2016. The team represents the mainland region, which encompasses the South Island of New Zealand.

Name changes

Although they are now known as the “Mainland Tactix”, the team has gone through a few name changes. From 1998 to 2007, they were referred to as the “Canterbury Flames”. The team played in the National Bank Cup league until it was replaced by the ANZ Championship. From 2008 to 2012 the team changed their name to the “Canterbury Tactix”. In October 2012, Netball Mainland was established as the governing body to represent not only Canterbury but all of the South Island regions of New Zealand. This is when the team changed their name to “Mainland Tactix”. The team’s name, “Tactix”, reflects their strategic approach to the game and their ability to think tactically on the court. The team has since become one of the most prominent teams in New Zealand netball.

Successes and challenges

Over the years, the Tactix have had their fair share of successes and challenges. In the early years, they faced some difficulties, but they continued to build a strong foundation and develop their roster.

In the 2020 ANZ Premiership season, the team had a breakthrough year, reaching the grand final for the first time in their history.

Although they ultimately fell short of winning the championship, it was a significant achievement for the Tactix and showcased their growth and progress as a team.

Fans

The Mainland Tactix have a dedicated and passionate fan base that provides unwavering support to the team. They proudly don the team’s colours of red, black, and white, creating a vibrant sea of colours in the stands.

The Red Swarm brings energy and excitement to each match, cheering on the players and creating a formidable home advantage. The fan base comprises a diverse group of supporters, including families, local netball enthusiasts, and passionate sports fans from the Christchurch and wider Mainland region. With their ongoing dedication, the Red Swarm continues to play a vital role in the success of the Mainland Tactix.

Talented players

The Mainland Tactix have had a number of notable players that have made significant contributions to the team and the sport of netball in New Zealand. Here are a few examples of notable players who have represented the Mainland Tactix:

Anna Thompson

Anna Thompson is one of the most distinguished players in Tactix history. She had a long and successful career with the team, playing as a midcourter. Thompson was known for her exceptional vision, playmaking ability, and defensive skills. She was a key figure in the Tactix lineup for many years and brought experience and leadership to the team.

Jess Moulds

Jess Moulds, a versatile and dynamic player, made a significant impact during her time with the Tactix. She played as a defender and was admired for her agility, tenacity, and ability to disrupt opposition attacks. Moulds was recognised for her strong defensive presence and played a vital role in the team’s success.

Jane Watson

Jane Watson, a highly talented defender, has been a standout player for the Tactix and the New Zealand national team. Known for her exceptional intercepting skills, agility, and anticipation, Watson has consistently showcased her defensive prowess. She has earned numerous accolades for her performances and has become one of the top defenders in the ANZ Premiership.

Te Paea Selby-Rickit

Te Paea Selby-Rickit has made a significant impact on the Tactix team. She possesses excellent shooting accuracy, skilful footwork, and a strong presence in the shooting circle. Selby-Rickit’s ability to perform under pressure and consistently score goals has been instrumental in the team’s success.

Summary

The Mainland Tactix is a formidable netball team that has established itself as a prominent force in New Zealand netball. With a dedicated fan base, talented players, and a strategic approach to the game, the Tactix continue to make strides towards success in the ANZ Premiership. Through their successes and challenges, the team has demonstrated resilience and growth, capturing the hearts of their loyal supporters in the process. With a rich history and a bright future ahead, the Mainland Tactix are poised to leave a lasting impact on the sport of netball in New Zealand.