Bronze Medal: Women’s Basketball, 16th World Deaf Games, Christchurch

The New Zealand Deaf Women’s Basketball team placed third in the 16th World Deaf Games in Christchurch 1989. Lorraine Butler, a player and member of Manawatu Deaf Society, donated her medal to the Club. Those playing on the New Zealand team were: Nadia Baradi, Lorraine Butler, Erina Haronga, Ripeka Morgan, Nicki Morrison, Susie Ovens, Carol Owen, Angeline Perez, Kelly Quirke, Miiria Storey, Andie Vowles. The team manager was Barbara Hazelwood.

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NZSL story – Taonga source: Susie Ovens

Called Home to Win: NZ Shocks Australia at the Deaf Games

The 1989 World Deaf Games in Christchurch was Susie’s third WDG, but her first time representing New Zealand in Deaf women’s basketball. While on a working holiday in England, she got the call to return home and play. She said yes, thinking she’d head back afterwards – but she ended up staying in New Zealand! Named team captain, she faced the USA in their opening match. Nerves kicked in, and she was subbed off before finding her confidence and getting back on the court. Although the USA won, the real highlight came when New Zealand took on Australia, who had won bronze in 1985. It was a tough game – and New Zealand won 91–65! Everyone was shocked and thrilled. Truly unforgettable!