Crowd celebrates Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic’s final game at Mystery Creek

The atmosphere was “electric” at Mystery Creek Events Centre as fans old and new came out to watch the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic face Northern Mystics and farewell the team’s home of 15 years.

Mystery Creek Events Centre has hosted the Magic since 1996, but most fans support the move to the new Claudelands Events Centre next season.

Peter and Bev Roigard of Te Awamutu have followed every Magic game and thought the feeling of the night was “great, but it’s better when we win”.

Friends Kath Letford and Liz Clare sat captivated through the nail-biting ANZ championship preliminary final and felt the buzz in the air.

MC Frankie Stevens reminded supporters that the occasion deserved loud support.

“Make some noise! This is your house!”

A flurry of blue bangers dotted the 5000-capacity centre, erupting in celebration whenever a goal was scored, even for the Mystics.

No one was shy to show up in team colours either.

Dressed in red, yellow and black shirts with wigs to match, Sam King and Kelly Whittaker were two of a small gang of girls from Te Puke who glowed with support for the Magic, ringing cow bells at every opportunity.

The ANZ All Star Legacy Cheerleaders were a hit with the crowd at halftime, and gasps rang out as girls spun circles through the air.

First-time spectator Caleb Kennedy, 10, of Ohaupo  said the “free stuff” was the best bit about netball.

Brother Alex, 13, said it was mum that dragged them along but admitted the match was “really exciting” to watch.

Kathy Holbrook of Te Kowhai has been to games for years and said the move to Claudelands would give the team a more central base, but thought they would miss the history of Mystery Creek.

“It’s sad, but it’s necessary because they need a dedicated centre that’s always available.

“I think Claudelands will be fine”.

Regardless of venue, it seems fans will still be there, with red, yellow and black bells on.