Sophie Yu (Year 13) has been part of a standout New Zealand performance at the 2026 Australian Junior Interstate Teams Matches, held at Moonah Links on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula from 13–16 April.
Returning to the event for the first time in 28 years, the New Zealand team went through all seven rounds unbeaten and came away with a clean sweep of all three trophies. It’s a result that doesn’t come around often, and it was a strong statement from the team across the week.
Sophie played her part in that, going undefeated across the tournament. Her win in the final round against Victoria proved important, helping New Zealand edge a tight finish to secure the girls’ title. It was also the first time New Zealand has competed in the girls’ event, making the result even more special.
Across the week, the team secured the overall title along with both the boys’ and girls’ trophies, showing real depth across the group.
For Sophie, it’s another step forward. Competing in this kind of environment, and delivering consistently across multiple rounds, says a lot about where her game is at right now and the direction she’s heading.
