Live blog: SSN signings 2025

We’re in for another interesting player movement period. And while there won’t be as many changes as last year, the signing period is still set to deliver some game-changing moves. 

Clubs have already made a few big calls on their rosters and with the signing window now open for players to make their next career move, the possibilities are endless. 

Here we detail the latest signing news. You know where to come if you want to find out which of the world’s best netballers might be rocking your favourite team’s kit in 2025. 

Williams to continue in pink
3 September

The Adelaide Thunderbirds have extended their contract with midcourter Tayla Williams.

Williams will remain with the club until the end of 2026.

Thunderbirds General Manager of High Performance Jace Bode acknowledged Williams for her leadership skills.

“Tayla has been an integral part of the team's midcourt this season, and she was a major contributor to our back-to-back premiership campaigns,” Bode said. 

“Her ability to feed our goalers has been crucial in setting up our offence, and we look forward to seeing Tex grow those connections further through to 2026.

“She is a natural born leader and we are happy to be extending her time with the club.”

Garrett extends
29 August

Thunderbirds premiership player Matilda Garrett has added another year to her contract, committing to the club until the end of 2026.

Thunderbirds General Manager of High Performance Jace Bode acknowledged Garrett as key to the team's defensive unit.

“Tilly has been crucial to the success of our defensive line-up and has played a pivotal role in our back-to-back premierships,” Bode said.

“Her relentless pressure has seen her shutdown some of the game's best attackers and her combinations with our Jamaican defenders have grown exponentially .”

“Tilly has proved to be a strong leader both on and off the court and we can’t wait to have her back for 2025 and 2026.”

Horjus extends contract with Thunderbirds
27 August

South Australian local Georgie Horjus has extended her contract with her the Adelaide Thunderbirds until the end of 2026.

The dynamic attacker adding an additional year to the two-year contract she signed at the end of 2023, joining Jamaican defensive stars Shamera Sterling-Humphrey and Latanya Wilson on long-term deals.

Thunderbirds General Manager of High Performance Jace Bode reflected on Horjus' hard work throughout 2024.

“Georgie had an outstanding 2024 season and was a huge contributor to the team's back-to-back premiership success,” Bode said.

“Her ability to switch in between WA and GA with ease showed her versatility on court and her skill as one of the team's key playmakers.

“Georgie is a big part of our future and we are thrilled to be able to extend her time at the club to 2026.”

Nankivell continues with Mavericks
23 August

The Melbourne Mavericks have re-signed midcourter Maisie Nankivell.

The club stating on their social media that the star will be returning for 2025.

"We already knew Maisie had wings - and now she's flying into 2025 with us," the club stated.

The signing completes the Mavericks' list for 2025.

Lambden becomes a Swift
23 August

Defensive midcourter Sharni Lambden has signed with the NSW Swifts for 2025.

The 25-year-old was ecstatic to be offered a position with the side.

“I have always had a huge admiration for the Swifts and loved their famous rivalry with the Vixens so getting the chance to make the move to Sydney is really special,” she said.

“I’ve had the privilege to play with some of the best in the world at the Vixens and am equally excited to get the chance to do the same with the Swifts.

“Briony and the Club have such a proud record of title wins and Grand Final appearances and I really want to contribute not just on court, but off it too.

“I would like to thank everyone at the Vixens for my recent opportunities and I will always be grateful to them.

“Now my focus is on making the move to NSW and forming new bonds with teammates, the Club staff and the Swifts fans.”

Swifts head coach Briony Akle was delighted to welcome Lambden to the club.

“We are blessed in Australia with a real depth of midcourt talent and Sharni is among the very best,” she said.

“We came up against Sharni in our clash with the Vixens in Round 11 earlier this year and she was a very tough opponent who stood out to us.

“Not only has she got exceptional vision, she is very strong in winning ball back and forcing attacks into errors.

“We have a huge respect for the Vixens and to stand out in their set-up means you have to be a special player and I cannot wait to see how she connects with our equally talented squad.”

Thunderbirds reward Graham
23 August

The Thunderbirds have elevated South Australian young gun Kayla Graham to their contracted 10 for 2025.

The lively attacker will add further versatility to the reigning premiers.

Thunderbirds General Manager of High Performance Jace Bode said the club was thrilled to elevate another South Australian to the team.

“Developing SA talent has been a key focus for Tania and the club since she returned as head coach in 2019 and we’re pleased to give this opportunity to another local star,” Bode said.

“Kayla has been in our Thunderbirds training environment over the past two seasons and has proven what she is capable of in our Futures side and in our state league competition.

“Her potential is vast, she is incredibly versatile and dynamic, and we look forward to working with her more closely in 2025.”

Lambden departs Vixens
23 August

Vixens squad member Sharni Lambden has informed the club she's signed elsewhere for 2025.

Melbourne Vixens General Manager - High Performance and Pathways Megan Simpson thanked Lambden for her contribution to the club.

“Sharni has been an integral part of the Melbourne Vixens environment for a few years now, and we thank her for her contribution to the club,” Simpson said.

“She’s an incredibly hard worker, has played her role as a squad member and stepped up when the team has needed her. We’re proud to see the Victorian pathway talent rewarded with exciting opportunities and are looking forward to seeing Sharni take on this next chapter.”

Crampton completes GIANTS team
22 August

The GIANTS have signed former Silver Fern Gina Crampton in their contracted 10 for next season.

Crampton served as a training partner throughout 2024 and decided she's ready to return to playing full time after initially wanting some time away from the game

“Yeah, it definitely wasn’t in the plans when I left New Zealand,” she admitted. 

“I had to really sit on it for a while if I’m honest. I’m at the back end of my career and I definitely had some doubts creep in, but at the end of the day, it was an opportunity to be a part of the best netball league in the world and I had to do it. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed season 2024 as a training partner. Everything was new for me but I felt so welcomed – I was in awe of how the GIANTS is run and how well supported you are – so I'm excited to be part of it in a full-time capacity next year.”  

Crampton is excited to be part of the GIANTS and is looking forward to continuing with the group.

“I just want to be a part of the team, be accountable for the girls and be a part of the ins and outs of how we perform,” she said.  

“They are things that you cannot replicate outside of sport, and that’s what I love about netball. 

“Being part of a tight group working towards the common goal - whether that be getting some wins on the board or being proud of the brand of netball we put out. Add that on top of being challenged by the world's best players each week, I believe it will be a special year for me.” 

GIANTS head coach Julie Fitzgerald was thrilled to announce Crampton as the final player in the side's contracted 10 for next season.

"Gina is an outstanding addition to our squad,” Fitzgerald said. 

“Her experience and skill set align perfectly with our team’s goals and strategies.  

“We’re excited to see how her leadership and playmaking abilities will contribute to our performance on the court.” 

Hinchliffe stays with Lightning
22 August

The Sunshine Coast Lightning will retain their full squad for 2025 with defender Tara Hinchliffe re-signing.

Hinchliffe was the only player not on a multi-year deal ahead of the 2024 season.

Head coach Belinda Reynolds reflected on what Hinchliffe brings to the club.

“Tara contributes significantly to both on-court performance and team dynamics. She’s a selfless consistent performer with exceptional game smarts, and she epitomises everything our Club stands for,” she said.

“We are thrilled to welcome her back to the team next season.”

Reynolds also touched on the stability keeping the team together will provide. 

“I’m extremely pleased to enter the 2025 season with the same 10 athletes as we had this year,” she said.

“We worked hard this year to solidify our chemistry and culture within our squad, and these relationships will enable us to build on our cohesive units from the get-go when we hit preseason.”

 

Beckford re-signs with Fever
22 August

West Coast Fever have re-signed lively goal attack Shanice Beckford.

The signing completes Fever's contracted 10 for 2025.

Fever General Manager Sue Gaudion said the club is excited to have extended Beckford's contract. 

“We are really excited to have Shanice Beckford back in Green for 2025 and we cannot wait to see her take her game to the next level as she becomes more familiar with the Fever environment and system," she said.

“Shanice has shown she has what it takes to compete and her blistering start to her SSN career and the 2024 season is a prime example of what she can deliver.

“This year saw Shanice step into a full-time, professional environment for the first time in her career and we know she will continue to thrive as she benefits from the experiences she has at West Coast Fever.

“Her team first attitude, drive to improve and her strong connection with Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard make her a vital component of our contracted 10 for 2025.”

Beckford is thrilled to be remaining in green in 2025.

“I had the most incredible debut experience in the Suncorp Super Netball League with West Coast Fever," she said.

“Being part of the West Coast Fever environment was truly amazing. I had a fantastic time building long-lasting relationships with my teammates and the coaching staff, while simultaneously learning and growing in my netball skills.

“The whole experience of being in Western Australian has been absolutely extraordinary.

“I am eagerly anticipating the upcoming 2025 season and can't wait to see what it has in store, especially playing alongside my teammates in front of the passionate and supportive Green Army.

“I am genuinely thrilled to be back and looking forward to the exciting journey ahead.”

Browne moves into next phase of career
21 August

The West Coast Fever have announced Kelsey Browne will step into a new role in 2025 as she moves into the next phase of her career.

Browne will continue with Fever in a Club Ambassador role while staying with the club as a training partner.

Browne is excited for the new opportunity with Fever.

“It's really exciting time to be stepping into a new role next year with Fever, which allows me to explore a heap of other opportunities that I've been presented in the media," she said.

“It’s a passion of mine to move into what's next in my life and netball has been the most amazing part of me for 10 seasons. I need to start looking at the next stage of my life and really nourishing the opportunities that are coming towards me.

“I'm so lucky to be at Fever, where I can go in and have a conversation with Sue Gaudion and Dan Ryan and say to them: ‘this is what I want to do’."

Head Coach Dan Ryan reflected on Browne's impact at the club.

“Kelsey has had such a positive impact on the entire Club this season and we’ve absolutely loved having her in green. Watching her thrive and develop such a deep passion for West Coast Fever, the Green Dress and the Green Army has been so special to see," Ryan said.

“She’s found a home in Perth and we’re so excited to be able to continue this journey with her and have her involved in our Club, team and program next season.  

“I’m incredibly grateful that our Club can support her through this transition from full time athlete into the next phase of her career and life. There’s still more netball to be played but there’s also plenty for Kelsey to accomplish beyond the netball court.

“Kelsey is Fever through and through and she’s going to play a key role in helping drive this team and our Club forward, on and off the court, in 2025. As always, she’ll give this new role her heart and soul and if a game day opportunity knocks, I know she’ll be ready to go and we’ll be right behind her every step of the way.”

Swifts part ways with Gorman-Brown
21 August

The NSW Swifts have announced Lili Gorman-Brown will not be part of their contracted 10 in 2025.

Gorman-Brown departs the club after three seasons with the side having debuted as a temporary replacement player against the Vixens in 2022, playing a key role in the 2023 season as a replacement player again earning a 2024 contract.

The club thanked her for her contribution and commitment to the club over the years.

Firebirds elevate Barnett
20 August

The Firebirds have signed 21-year-old Ashlee Barnett to complete their contracted 10 for 2025.

Barnett was named as the Firebirds Futures MVP following a strong showing in the SSN Reserves throughout 2024.

The Futures captain is looking forward to being part of the Firebirds in 2025.

“I am excited to be selected for the Queensland Firebirds' 2025 season,” Barnett said.

“I’m eager to learn from Kiri and benefit from her energy, knowledge, and leadership.

“I’m committed to working hard and absorbing as much as possible.

“I’m also incredibly thankful for the chance to work with Ruby, Issy, and all the amazing players on the 2025 team.”

Firebirds head coach Kiri Wills commended Barnett on our performance throughout 2024.

“Ashlee made the most of this year’s Super Netball reserves program to show her ability against SSN-standard attackers,” Wills said.

“She has shown leadership alongside her ability and can play at either goal defence or goal keeper, giving us extra options in that defensive third.

“Ash thrives on the physical contest and I’m excited to see the progress she can make next year alongside Ruby and another young defender in Isabelle.”
 

Nweke crosses the ditch
16 August

Silver Ferns goaler Grace Nweke has signed with the NSW Swifts for 2025.

Swifts head coach Briony Akle welcomed Nweke to the side.

“Grace is one of the best shooters in the world and we are very excited to welcome her to the Swifts,” Akle said.

“While she has established herself at international level, I feel she has only scratched the surface of her potential and we cannot wait to share this next chapter with her.

“When we chatted with Grace it was clear that she wanted to test herself in our competition and continue her growth as a player and person and that resonates with us." 

Nweke is thrilled to be joining the Swifts. 

“Playing with the Swifts in Australia will provide me with new challenges and experiences that will further hone my skills and, ultimately, benefit my game at all levels,” she said.

“Getting the opportunity to be exposed to different playing styles and strategies, week in and week out, is really important for my development and I am honoured to have the chance to do this at a club as successful and storied as the Swifts.

“I am ready for a shake-up and a new journey and cannot wait to get started with the Swifts."


Aiken-George sticks with pink
16 August

The Thunderbirds have locked in 2024 Grand Final MVP Romelda Aiken-George for another season.

The superstar goaler will enter her 17th season in the national league next year.

Thunderbirds General Manager of High Performance Jace Bode said the club is excited to have her sign on for 2025.

“Romelda was a dominant target for us under the post in 2024 and once again showed why she is one of the best shooters the sport has ever seen,” Bode said.

“Her competitiveness on court and ability to take ball in the air and covert to goal was second to none.

“She added invaluable experience to our attack line and built strong connections with the players around her.

“We look forward to welcoming her back in 2025."

Vixens re-sign trio
16 August

The Melbourne Vixens have completed their playing roster for 2025 re-signing trio Rudi Ellis, Zara Walters and Lily Graham.

Head coach Simone McKinnis OAM is excited to have the trio staying in the Vixens' den.

"We’re thrilled to have re-signed Rudi, Zara and Lily. We’ve started to build something special with this group, we can all feel that we have more to achieve together and I’m super pleased to be taking this team into next season,” said head coach Simone McKinnis OAM.

“As a coach nothing excites me more than players like Rudi, Zara and Lily – talented athletes who are eager to learn, who want to soak it up and really take the game on – but more than that, they’re really good quality people and they bring a lot to our team culture.

“We really take pride in our pathway and in our ability to invest in local talent, and to see these athletes come into our club and take an opportunity with both hands is so exciting for our team and our fans.

“We were shattered to come so close to the ultimate success this year, but that’s already fuelling the group to work together as a unit and go one better in 2025. This season was just the beginning.”

Ellis is thrilled to be re-signing with the club.

“I’m so excited to be re-signing with the Vixens, I have nothing but love for the club and the people in it. I can’t wait to continue on with this amazing bunch of girls and hopefully win a premiership together,” said Ellis.

Walters is excited for a second year with the Vixens.

“I’m super excited to be re-signing with the Melbourne Vixens. Everyone at the club has made my first year so enjoyable and I can’t wait to build on what we were able to achieve this year with this group of girls,” said Walters.

Graham is looking forward to continuing to develop her craft with the club.

“I’m really grateful to be signing again with the Vixens, this club means so much to me and I’m extremely excited to be learning from the best,” said Graham.


O'Brien stays a GIANT
15 August

The GIANTS have re-signed young gun Erin O'Brien on a two-year deal.

The 20-year-old is excited to re-sign with the club. 

“I love this club, and I am so lucky to be a part of such a talented group of girls with incredible coaches and support staff,” O’Brien said. 

“I am so grateful to receive a multi-season contract and am ready to get stuck into training to make sure I can be the best I can be for the team as we continue to grow and build as we strive for success.” 

GIANTS head coach Julie Fitzgerald is thrilled to have locked O'Brien in for the next two seasons.

“Erin has so much potential and is a star of the future, so we’re excited to see her remain in the orange and charcoal,” Fitzgerald said. 

“We were really pleased with the growth and development we saw from her this season, and she thrived from the access and support of all our high-performance staff. 

“We look forward to seeing her continue to develop and she is certainly the type of player we believe supports the direction of where we want to take this club in the future.” 

Lucy's locked in
15 August

Young gun Lucy Austin has signed a one year extension with the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

The 22 year old is a two-time premiership winner with the Thunderbirds and was recently named as an Australian Diamonds invitee.

Thunderbirds General Manager of High Performance Jace Bode said the club was thrilled to welcome Austin back for a third season.

“Lucy has continued to grow her game immensely in 2024 and has been a big part of our past two premierships,” Bode said.

“We have no doubt she’ll continue to develop and thrive in our program, and we look forward to working with her again next season.

“We’re excited to have Lucy back in the pink dress and can’t wait to see her game go to another level in 2025.”

Andrew accepts opportunity overseas
15 August

Vixens' eleventh player Emily Andrew has informed the club she's accepted an opportunity overseas.

The mobile shooter first joined the Vixens squad in 2022 and was elevated into the side's game day team on a number of occasions. 

In a statement online the Vixens thanked Andrew for her contribution to the club.

"Emily has contributed so much to our club, and we can’t wait to see her continue to grow her game next year and beyond," the club stated. 


Frew stays in pink
14 August

Premiership player Lauren Frew has re-signed with the Thunderbirds for 2025.

Thunderbirds’ General Manager of High Performance Jace Bode acknowledged Frew was an integral part of the side’s goal circle in 2024.

“Loz proved she belongs at the elite level in 2024 and stepped up in the finals series as the side secured its second premiership in two seasons,” Bode said.
 

“She built strong connections with her teammates, both on and off the court, and was consistently accurate to post.

“We are excited to continue working with Loz and look forward to having her back on court in 2025.”

Kumwenda extends break
14 August

Melbourne Vixen Mwai Kumwenda will continue her break from on-court duties in 2025.

With full support of her club, the star who gave birth to her first child in late July will continue her break next year. 

The club announcing Kumwenda will not be contracted in the Vixens squad of 10 but will remain connected to the team in an off-court capacity. Kumwenda will also continue her work with Netball Victoria, which sees her forging valuable connections with local multicultural communities.

Head coach Simone McKinnis expressed how proud the team is of Kumwenda becoming a mum.

“As a team we’re really proud watching MJ grow into her new role as a mum, and we recognise the enormity of what she’s gone through in the past few weeks welcoming her first baby,” said McKinnis.

“We’ll keep working with MJ on what her future looks like as she settles into this exciting new stage of her life outside netball – for now she’s focusing on being a mum to little Maximus and we’ll continue supporting her as she takes the time she needs.”

“I’ve loved seeing MJ take on a mentor role with some of our younger players this year, she adds so much to our team environment and to our netball community at grassroots level as well.”

Kumwenda thanked the club for their support during this exciting time. 

“I am loving this new stage of my life as a parent, it is a new challenge and family is very important to me,” said Kumwenda.

“I am grateful for the club’s support as we settle into our new family life, for now I am excited to keep working with Netball Victoria and the Vixens off the court and we will see what the future brings for me on the court.”

Three more years of Tania
13 August

Good news for the back-to-back premiers this morning, with the club announcing the re-signing of coach Tania Obst for another three seasons.

Netball SA CEO Bronwyn Klei said the organisation was delighted to extend Obst’s contract.

“Tania has had a clear vision for this club since signing on in 2019 and we have seen this come to life in recent seasons with premiership success in 2023 and 2024,” Ms Klei said.

“Her passion for South Australia and elevating its talent has seen many locals shine on the big stage alongside international stars who now call Adelaide home.

“We look forward to continuing to work together to ensure that the Adelaide Thunderbirds are a destination club for the world’s best players and administrators.”

Orr departs Thunderbirds
12 August

Thunderbirds' eleventh player Tyler Orr has informed the club she will be pursing an opportunity overseas in 2025.

Thunderbirds General Manager of High Performance Jace Bode thanked Orr for her contribution to the club.

“Tyler has had a big impact on this club both on and off the court, particularly in 2024 as she juggled her responsibilities as our inaugural 11th player and captain of our Futures side,” Bode said.

“She’s a natural leader and is highly respected amongst the playing group and staff.

“We wish Tyler the best of luck as she pursues this opportunity overseas and thank her for everything she has done for our club.”

Allison heads down under
9 August 

England Rose Imogen Allison will don the Firebirds' purple in 2025.

The crafty midcourter has signed a two-year deal with the club.

During her time in the Netball Super League, Allison enjoyed great success at Bath where they reached the 2021 Grand Final following a campaign where Allison was named Bath’s Player of the Year.

Allison captained Bath the following season before making the move to the Manchester Thunder for 2024.

This year Allison reached the Grand Final with her team but the side were defeated in the big dance.

Allison is looking forward to joining Suncorp Super Netball.

“I’ve always enjoyed watching SSN and hoped to get the opportunity to play in it,” Allison said.

“I’m at the point in my career where I feel like I’ll really benefit from experiencing different styles of play in the Australian league and also with a bit of a Kiwi style playing under Kiri.

“I’m most looking forward to meeting my teammates and getting to know them on and off the court. I’m also looking forward to getting to know Brisbane. I’ve only been once and I loved the city so I’m excited to explore more.”

Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills touched on the leadership skills and experience Allison will bring to the Firebirds midcourt.

“Imogen has great physical attributes which I’m sure will suit her well in the SSN,” Wills said.

“Her quick feet, agility and timing ensures she provides a body-on-body defensive threat but can also come away from the body to secure loose ball or force a turnover.

“She has also proven her leadership credentials with Bath, adding to a midcourt pool that already includes Lara Dunkley, Tonga captain Hulita Veve and our recently crowned MVP in Macy Gardner.

“I’m beyond excited to see the impact Imogen can have in Australia and I know she’ll be a favourite of our fans in no time.”

Aryang elevated by Fever
9 August

Youngster Ruth Aryang will get to pull on the green dress again next season, elevated from the side's Eleventh player to their contracted 10 for 2025.

Ruth is ecstatic about the prospect of playing regular SSN games in 2025 alongside her sister Sunday.

“It’s a surreal moment when I first heard I was going to get a contract for season 2025,” Ruth said.

“I am really looking forward to playing alongside Sunday and my other teammates. Sunday and I have spoken about this for the last couple of years and knowing it is going to come true is pretty amazing.

“I did not think I’d be sitting here with everything that happened with the knee injury. I am super grateful and proud of myself that I was able to get through that journey and I am looking forward to what season 2025 brings.”

Fever General Manager Sue Gaudion said the club is extremely excited to have Ruth locked in for next season. 

“Ruthy has been through quite a journey already and this contract is reward for her hard work, dedication, passion and never giving up on her dreams,” Gaudion said.

“For Ruth to come through those tough times and play some exceptional netball this year, whether that was with Fever, our Reserves side or the Fremantle Sharks in GIG WANL, her performances highlighted her undeniable talent and that she was ready to step up to a full time contract with Fever in 2025." 

Streutker departs Mavericks
8 August

The Mavericks have announced the departure of goaler Rolene Streutker.

Streutker is thankful for her experience with the Mavericks.

"This has been such a great experience for me," she said.

"I've learned a lot and I've grown so much as a person. It wasn't the year I envisioned for myself, but all together it was so worth being a part of such an amazing group of people.

"I am honored to be an inaugural Maverick."

McDonell stays a GIANT
7 August

Defender Tilly McDonell has signed on with the GIANTS for another season. 

McDonell is excited to be back in orange in 2025. 

“It’s an absolute privilege to play for this club and to wear the orange dress,” she said.

“This club means everything to me. I know it’s cliche, but I swear I have an orange heart.

“Heading into 2025, I am so excited about the development of our defensive unit. I feel that we developed substantially across the course of the season, and we had some unreal possession gains between us all.

“We have the guts, energy and connection, now we just need to solidify our structures and game smarts as a unit.”

GIANTS head coach Julie Fitzgerald is pleased to have McDonell back on board. 

“She has had a fantastic season, and it is really exciting to have her re-commit to the club,” Fitzgerald said.

“Tilly has been with us since she was 18-years-old and to see her make her mark this year and develop into the athlete she has become is really special.

“Her dedication to the club and sport is evident in everything she does both on and off the court and she truly exemplifies what it means to be a GIANT.

“I have no doubt that her presence will undoubtedly energise our squad and fans as we aim to reach new heights in 2025.”

Cholhok enters the big league
7 August

Prolific goaler Mary Cholhok has signed a multi-year deal with the Queensland Firebirds.

The Sudanese-born goaler has represented Uganda since 2018 and was part of the She Cranes’ 2019 and 2023 World Cup team.

Cholhok has spent six seasons with English Super League (ESL) club Loughborough Lightning. 

The 27-year-old scored a league-high 975 goals in 2024, including 50 goals in the Lightning’s Grand Final win over Manchester Thunder.

Cholhok is looking forward to joining the world's best league in 2025. 

“I am so excited to be joining the Firebirds,” Cholhok said.

“It has always been my dream to play in the best league in the world.

“Every Saturday morning when I wake up I watch highlights of SSN and now it is surreal that I am going to be a part of the league.

“I am so grateful to the Firebirds for this opportunity. I can wait to get started and meet the Firebirds family.”

Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills is thrilled to have locked Cholhok into her line up.

“I tried for many seasons to lure Mary to New Zealand to join me at the Northern Stars without success,” Wills said.

“So to know Mary will now be joining me at the Firebirds in 2025 is a real thrill and I can’t wait to see what she can do in the SSN.

“Mary’s height is obviously a key asset but she’s developed her game so much in England. Her athleticism makes her difficult for defenders to manage. As a result her accuracy and volume is incredible.

“I just know Mary is going to be a wonderful member of our Purple Family and look forward to welcoming her to Brisbane in a few weeks.”

Jok earns her wings
5 August 

Mavericks' eleventh player Shimona Jok has earned her spot in the side’s contracted 10 for next season. 

The shooter was one of their best performers throughout 2024 after being elevated into the game day squad and took out their inaugural Maverick of the Year Club Champion award. 

The club released the following statement on their social media channels announcing the news. 

“It’s with huge grins on our faces that we can announce Shimmy has accepted a contract to be a Melbourne Maverick for the ’25 season,” the club stated. 

Sinclair not re-signed by Mavs
1 August

The Melbourne Mavericks have chosen not to offer a new contract to long range shooter Gabby Sinclair.  

The club released the following statement on their social media channels to thank the shooter for her time. 

“After careful consideration, Gabby Sinclair has not been offered a contract for the ’25 season,” the statement read. 

“Gabby has been an integral part of the inaugural Melbourne Mavericks team – she is well loved on and off the court, a true Maverick by definition. We wish her nothing but the best.” 

Winders heading home
31 July 
 
Midcourter Sam Winders has informed the GIANTS she will be returning home to New Zealand after a season in orange. 

The 29-year-old weighed up her options before deciding returning home was the right next move for her. 

“It’s always a difficult time of the year trying to figure out what is right for you, and I always go into a team with the intention that I’m not just there for a one season stint so that was always in the back of my end,” Winders said. 

“When it came to the end of the season, I really needed to consider two things - my life outside of netball and what was best for me, and also at this age and stage of my career netball-wise I just want to be playing, so I needed to consider those two things and that helped me come to my decision that heading home was the best decision. 

“I’m in a good place with the decision and it’s easy to make a decision when you know what is important to you.” 

GIANTS head coach Julie Fitzgerald thanked Winders for her contribution to the club. 

“I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to reconnect with Sam this season and I sincerely hope she enjoyed this chapter in her professional netball career,” Fitzgerald said. 

“From the moment Sam joined the team she brought a blend of professionalism, enthusiasm and dedication that complemented our culture. 

“As she returns home to embark on her next chapter, I want to express my appreciation and gratitude for her service. Her legacy with the club will be fondly remembered and she will forever leave her mark on our club.” 

Shearer signs on
31 July 

The Queensland Firebirds have announced the re-signing of young gun Isabelle Shearer. 

The 21-year-is looking forward to donning the purple dress again in 2025. 

“I’m so excited to be back in the purple dress for 2025,” Shearer said. 

“Grateful for the opportunities I’ve had so far and really looking forward to what lies ahead and hitting the court hard in season ‘25.” 

Recently appointed Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills commended Shearer on her first year of SSN. 

“Isabelle showed great promise in her first year of SSN,” Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills said.  

“2025 will be an important step in her development and we are looking forward to seeing her develop into a player who can have a great impact for the Firebirds.” 

Firebirds name new head coach
29 July

The Queensland Firebirds have appointed Kiri Wills as the club's new head coach.

Wills has signed a two-year deal, the former New Zealand Under-21 and Fast5 Ferns coach, will relocate to Brisbane to join the Firebirds ahead of the 2025 SSN season.

She joins the Firebirds with extensive coaching experience including leading the Northern Stars in the New Zealand ANZ Premiership since 2018 – taking the club to three grand finals.

Wills is looking forward to coaching in the world's best league.

“I am honoured and excited about coaching the Queensland Firebirds,” Wills said. 

“Players and coaches around the world look on with envy at the calibre of the Suncorp Super Netball competition so it is a giant step for me. 

“The Firebirds have a history of being a formidable club and I am looking forward to rolling my sleeves up and working in partnership with the players, the team staff and Netball Queensland to work our way back to the top."

Firebirds part ways with Wallam and Kamo
26 July 

The Firebirds have parted ways with shooter Donnell Wallam and defender Remi Kamo ahead of 2025. 

Netball Queensland and Firebirds Chief Executive Kate Davies thanked both players for their contribution to the club. 

“On behalf of the Queensland Firebirds, I’d like to sincerely thank Donnell and Remi for their contribution to the club, and for providing many memorable moments for our fans,” Davies said. 

Davies explained the reasoning behind letting go of Origin Diamond Wallam.  

“There is no doubt Donnell is a quality player and her Diamonds selection for 2024 supports that,” Davies said. 

“This is simply a recruitment decision based on game style and strategy into the future and I know Donnell will continue to shine wherever her future lies.” 

Davies also went on to explain the club is farewelling Kamo to reset their defence end.  

“Remi has grown in her second year of SSN and been impactful on the court.  The Firebirds are seeking to reset their defensive strategy over the coming seasons and this decision is a part of that reset,” Davies said. 
 

Firebirds farewell Miller
25 July 
 
The Queensland Firebirds have parted ways with their eleventh player Ali Miller. 

Firebirds General Manager of High Performance Adrian Thompson thanked Miller for her contribution to the club. 

“While her on-court opportunities have been limited, Ali has set an example throughout the season with her team-first attitude and commitment to always giving 100 per cent to everything she does,” Thompson said.  

“I know I speak for everyone at the club in wishing Ali all the best for her future.” 
 

Ravaillion retires
9 July 

Firebirds midcourter Kim Ravaillion has announced her retirement from netball. 

The Firebirds captain won back-to-back premierships with the side in 2015 and 2016. 

“I’ve spent over a third of my life as a professional netballer but the time has come to close this chapter of my life,” Ravaillion said. 

“My time in purple has been amazing and unforgettable. There are so many people to thank who have been with me through this journey – family, friends, teammates – words cannot express how much I love and appreciate you all.” 

 
Veve inks deal for 2025
27 June  

The Queensland Firebirds have re-signed midcourter Hulita Veve for 2025. 

Veve is excited to be representing the Firebirds for another year. 

“I’m just so grateful to get another opportunity to put on the purple dress for the 2025 SSN season,” Veve said. 

“I didn’t think I would even make it this year so to be where I am now and be able to do it all again next year is just the dream that keeps on giving and I couldn’t be more excited for another season with my Purple Family. 

“I have so much love for this sport and this club and I cannot wait to run out as a Firebird in 2025.”