The inter-club challenge used to be a regular feature on the netball calendar until around ten years ago when it was left by the wayside. 

The competition had always proved popular, but numbers had fallen off and the event was revived this year by a team of dedicated volunteers including members from the Bega, Merimbula and Bombala netball clubs.

This year the challenge was held at three locations, the first at Merimbula, the second at Bombala, with the final round held in Bega over the weekend.

It was a close contest, but at the end of three tough days of competition over three months it was the Merimbula District Netball Association that came out on top. 

Officials said they were thrilled with the response to the competition that had seen strong contingents from all three clubs take part in the rounds, while the Cup had also drawn good crowds.

And those who spectated on Sunday couldn’t have asked for a closer decider in the final game of the series between Bega and Merimbula in the opens division. 

With Bega winning the first match in Merimbula and Merimbula out scoring Bega at the Bombala carnival it all came down to who was on form on Sunday. 

It really was anyone’s game, the score went back and forth throughout the four quarters but in the final seconds Merimbula scored which put them in front 27 to 26 when the siren sounded. 

Merimbula opens captain Jane Blomfield said she was extremely proud of her team. 

“They managed to hold it together through some close games to come away with the win. We all gave 110 per cent and knew our roles to get the job done,” she said. 

“Kath Musgrove and Kellie Finn provided strong defence within the circle. This defence was consistent down the court by Kaycee west and Shelley de Costa. Our shooters, particularly Shae Lawler were great under pressure.”

Tournament organiser Michelle Kelly of Sapphire Coast netball said she was happy that they finally managed to get the cup up and running and said the cup already looked to be locked in as a regular fixture again. 

However, Ms Kelly is hoping the group can grow the competition in future.  

“We would love to have all the junior ages groups as well as an over 35s,” she said. 

“And maybe even a men’s open competition. 

It is all about getting netball in area to grow and to attract new players.”