Bay Magic shooter Saviour Tui had a surprise for Whakatāne High School netballer Ariana Dawson last week.

At a school assembly on Thursday, Tui was on hand to present the young defender with a New Zealand team representative badge.

The presentation, attended by Dawson’s peers and family, had been kept under wraps, with the 16-year-old having no idea the school had organised the special recognition.

“The school texted me to make sure I was coming in today. I had no idea what was happening. I saw my family there and knew something was up,” she said.

Following the presentation, the entire school stood to perform a haka in her honour, creating an emotional moment for the young athlete.

Among those celebrating Dawson’s success was Storm Hale from the Nita Shannon Netball Centre, who has watched her development since she first stepped onto a netball court.

“I could tell from an early age she was going to go places,” said Hale.

“There was a degree of natural talent from the beginning.

“We’ve seen a few players go on to do well in the ANZ Premiership, but to have someone wear the New Zealand uniform is a huge achievement. Very few have accomplished what Ariana has.”

For Tui, supporting young athletes is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a professional player.

“Playing gives me the chance to look back at those taking the same journey I did and to take time out to support them. It’s an important part of what we do,” she said.

The presentation comes a week before Dawson leaves for Australia with the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ netball squad.

Being selected for this squad is one of the biggest moments of her sporting journey so far, and comes following participation in a series of demanding camps.

“Being selected to represent New Zealand has always been a dream of mine, and to do so at 16 is such a huge achievement for me,” she said.

“The camps were really challenging and intense, but were such a great experience.

“I learned a lot from the people around me, which helped grow my confidence and skill levels.”

The team leaves on Sunday for a five-day tour that will see them play against some of Australia’s top young netballers.

Dawson has not played against any Australian opposition previously and is looking forward to the challenge.

“I’m expecting a very different style to how we play, so hopefully we can adjust to that and get a good outcome.

“I think the biggest challenge is going to be adapting to how they play and the intensity and consistency required at this level.”

Dawson is intently focused on the next stage of her representative career and after Australia, her goal is to make the national team next year then continue climbing through the ranks when she leaves school.