Mystics Claim Record Fourth Title Amid Netball Future Doubts

The Northern Mystics have secured a record-breaking fourth ANZ Premiership title, defeating the Southern Steel 56-46 in Auckland. The victory makes the Mystics the most successful team in the competition's history, but the celebration is tempered by alarming uncertainty surrounding the future of elite netball in Aotearoa.

How Last Year's Heartbreak Fueled a Historic Win

There is a particular kind of resilience that only comes from profound disappointment. For the Northern Mystics, the crushing loss in last year's grand final was the catalyst for their 2026 campaign. Rather than hiding from the pain, coach Tia Winikerei and her squad dissected it, turning failure into a progressive blueprint for success.