By Sheree Mutton

A GREENFIELDS Park netballer has been selected in the 2011 under-17 state netball side.

Kristiana Manu'a, 15, was one of 12 players announced in the NSW under-17 team to represent the state in the national titles next year.

More than 130 athletes trailed for the squad before the numbers were crunched to 68 players and then again to 27 for the final selection last week.

"I feel pretty honoured to be chosen," Kristiana said.

"It's pretty exciting to go up to Brisbane and play netball."

The Westfields Sports High School student began playing netball at the age of Seven and practises almost every day.

I train for netball every day except for weekends," she said.

Liverpool City Netball Association's secretary Estelle Lawler said they were "absolu- tely ecstatic" about Kristiana's achievement.
"We watched Kristiana develop

over the last five years into the player she is today," Lawler said.

"It's been well over 20 years since anyone her age from Liverpool City Netball has made it to this level so we are very proud of her."

Lawler credits Kristiana's selection

to her coach of five years, Jennie Webster.

"Jennie has basically developed her and nurtured her into the player she is today."
Kristiana agrees.

"Jennie is the reason I got selected

for the NSW side," she said.
"It means a lot to me."
The NSW under-17 team will compete at the national titles from April 15-20, 2011 in Brisbane.
Lawler said Kristiana's rise to representative level was an inspiration to other young netballers.