Phoenix Karaka is a distinguished New Zealand netball international, celebrated for her remarkable contributions to the sport. Her professional journey began at Auckland Girls’ Grammar School, where she showcased her talent and quickly progressed through the ranks of age group teams, including the NZ Secondary Schools and NZ Under-21 teams. Notably, she was a key player in the victorious Under-21 side at the Youth World Cup in Glasgow in 2013, setting the stage for her future successes.

In 2013, Karaka signed her first professional contract with Southern Steel in the ANZ Championship, where she made an immediate impact over three seasons. Her impressive performances, particularly her ranking as the third overall for intercepts in the 2015 ANZ Championship, led to her signing with the Central Pulse in 2016. Her leadership skills shone through when she captained the Northern Mystics in 2019 and 2020, demonstrating her ability to inspire and elevate her team.

Karaka’s international career took off in 2014 when she made her debut for New Zealand during their Tour of the UK. Initially selected as a training partner, she quickly earned her place in the main squad due to her exceptional skills. Her pivotal role in the 2019 Netball World Cup winning team further solidified her status as a top player, and she made a triumphant return to the sport after the birth of her daughter, participating in the 2022 Netball Quad Series and being named in the team for the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Beyond her athletic prowess, Karaka’s journey reflects her resilience and dedication to netball. Her ability to balance personal milestones with professional commitments showcases her strength as an athlete and a role model. With a career marked by significant achievements and leadership, Phoenix Karaka continues to inspire future generations in the world of netball.