The partnership between the University of Waikato and Magic Netball continues to thrive in 2025, grounded in shared values around excellence, community impact, and future-focused learning. As a major sponsor of Magic Netball, the University supports not only the team’s success on the court but also career-building opportunities for students through real-world experiences.
One standout initiative from this year was a student internship opportunity — a practical placement designed to immerse a University of Waikato student in the fast-paced world of elite sport events.
Meet the Intern: Sienna Hall
Name: Sienna Hall
Hometown: Originally from the Sunshine Coast, Australia, Sienna was raised in the Coromandel before relocating to Hamilton to study at the University of Waikato.
Sienna is currently completing a Bachelor of Health, Sport and Human Performance, double majoring in Human Performance Science and Coaching and Development. With a deep passion for sport and athlete development, she was eager to take her learning beyond the classroom and into a professional setting.
Why The University of Waikato?
For Sienna, the University of Waikato ticked all the boxes. “I loved the idea of still being somewhat close to home,” she says. “Waikato was the only university offering such a broad range of topics in a sports degree — that flexibility and depth really appealed to me.”
How the Internship Came About
Sienna’s proactive mindset helped kickstart the opportunity.
“I just rang up and asked if this was a possibility,” she explains. “I met with Janette for a chat, and we discussed what an internship could look like.”
That conversation led to a custom internship experience with Magic Netball’s events team — a chance to gain firsthand exposure to the inner workings of professional sports.
What the Internship Offered
The internship placed Sienna at the heart of major event operations, allowing her to gain hands-on experience in the planning and delivery of elite-level netball games.
“I learned how large-scale events are coordinated from start to finish,” she shares. “From logistics and setup to fan engagement and coordination — it was incredible to see what happens behind the scenes.”
Through the experience, she built skills in event logistics, communication, team collaboration, and time management — all crucial elements of working in the sports industry.
Highlights of the Experience
For Sienna, the practical nature of the internship was the most rewarding.
“I’ve really enjoyed being involved in real tasks like helping set up events, coordinating logistics, and working with a wide range of people. It’s helped me build confidence and understand how things work in the real world of sports,” she says.
“Being part of a professional netball team’s event crew has been amazing. I’ve loved being surrounded by elite athletes and seeing how much work goes into supporting their performance and engaging fans.”
Advice for Other Students
Her biggest tip?
“Put yourself out there. Ask the question. Be reliable. Give it your best shot and work hard.”
Strengthening Pathways Through Partnership
The 2025 internship highlights how the University of Waikato’s sponsorship of Magic Netball goes beyond logos and signage — it creates genuine career-building pathways. By bridging academic learning with professional sport environments, this partnership empowers students to explore their potential and step confidently into their future careers.
