Team Photo: Manawatu Deaf Netball Club, 1985

Manawatu Deaf Netball Club; 1985 M.N.A. COMPETITION AND N.Z.D.S.C. AT NAPIER WINNERS: BRIAN SMITHERS CUP. SCORES: Manawatu 22 v Auckland 11; Manawatu 24 v Hawke’s Bay 6. Annette Hansen, Kelly Quirke, Margaret Bailey (Coach), Lorraine Butler, Susan Jamieson Debra Jamieson, Elizabeth Ooteman (Vice-Captain), Dorothy Jones (Captain), Gay Kearney. Absent: Diane Creighton, Terry Bailey (Team Manager).

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NZSL story – Taonga source: Kevin Pivac

A Sleepless Train Ride to and from Wellington for the Sports Convention

In 1972, Kevin played basketball for the Auckland Deaf Society at the Deaf Sports Convention in Wellington, where the team took home the Cunniffe Cup. The Auckland group travelled by overnight train, with one carriage packed full of Deaf people. Sleep was scarce with constant chatting and playing with the lights. Alcohol was banned on trains at the time, but on the return trip on Monday night, a friend met them at Paekākāriki and dropped off a crate, which they secretly brought into the carriage!

NZSL story – Taonga source: John Mansell

Dressed to Represent at the NZ Deaf Sports Convention

John recalls how athletes travelling to Deaf Sports Conventions, such as the one in Christchurch in 1968, were required to dress formally, including wearing ties. Both athletes and supporters wore rosettes to show their club. These were removed during games but worn again afterward. On the final evening, swapping rosettes was a tradition. John still has a few at home.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Shona McGhie

Wearing Two Hats: Shona on Leading NZ Deaf Sports

Shona McGhie shares her experience in the 1980s and 90s juggling two roles. She was both Secretary of the NZ Deaf Sports Association and Administrator of the NZ Deaf Games. As Administrator, she ensured the host city met all requirements to run the Sports Convention smoothly. She organised meetings, AGMs, and worked closely with delegates on teams, rules, and bylaws. Shona held the role for three years, helping keep Deaf sport in New Zealand running strong.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Ruth Jessep

Ruth Remembers Napier’s First Deaf Sports Convention

Ruth recalls being part of the organising committee for Napier’s first ever Deaf Sports Convention in 1985. That year, Hawke’s Bay earned 9 points toward the Aotearoa Turi Shield. Over the long weekend, Ruth played netball, basketball and badminton. At later conventions, she also gave golf a try.

NZSL story – Taonga source: Tony Walton

Where NZSL Thrives: The Power of Deaf Sport Gatherings

Tony Walton reflects on the importance of the NZ Deaf Games, once called the Sports Convention, held every Labour Weekend. It was more than just sport. It brought Deaf people together to socialise and sign in NZSL. Local delegates organised the event, while NZDSA awarded the Player of the Year and Aotearoa Turi Shield. A proposal to make the Games biennial was first rejected but later accepted. Looking back, Tony wishes it had stayed annual.