On August 11, the Tatapouri Thistle Marist football team flew to Auckland for a World Cup quarter-final experience.
Just over a week prior the team was surprised by the TAB which gave the Gisborne Club an $11,000 cheque for new club centenial strips.
![Gisborne Tatapouri Marist Thistle accept a $11,000 cheque from TAB general manager marketing NZ Pip Ericksen. Photo / Renae Lolohea](https://www.nzherald.co.nz/resizer/v2/FYIFPL4HUJGWRIHKRVJGOFRHS4.jpg?auth=c2167d06c9e0b8e72d01eaf80243d83d3eadc9f946ecdd63ca5a9c43475e676d&width=16&height=9&quality=70&smart=true)
The 22 members of the women’s team were also treated to brand new football gear, and flights, accommodation and tickets to the World Cup quarter-final match between Japan and Sweden in Auckland.
Midfielder Danni Hunter said the highlight was being at the game with her team.