I hope you are safe and well as we continue to navigate this global pandemic.
I am so proud that we have been able to deliver a full season of Suncorp Super Netball, bringing joy and excitement to our fans across the country, and the world, in these trying circumstances.
It has been a couple of challenging seasons for our world-class League, but the determination of our athletes, teams, officials and staff to make it happen for our fans was truly inspiring.
The 2020 season was tough but 2021 presented increasingly more hurdles every week. Border closures and restrictions made it extremely challenging for all sports. The solid relationships with state governments that the Suncorp Super Netball League and our teams have developed over many years helped get our season over the line, and I couldn’t be more grateful for their ongoing support of Australia’s leading League for women.
Ahead of today’s Grand Final, it is incredible to reflect on the achievement of delivering a full 60-game season this year.
It was on June 23 that players, coaches and staff from the NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball teams departed Sydney Airport with a suitcase packed for an unspecified period of time, not knowing when they would return home.
Today they will compete for the 2021 Premiership, marking their 67th day away from home.
Just like the Melbourne Vixens last year, it is quite remarkable that two NSW teams will play off in the Grand Final after they and their state have been through so much over the past three months.
All eight teams have needed to relocate at some stage throughout this season, as the pandemic forced the League into hub conditions that moved from Queensland to Melbourne, then to Adelaide and back to Queensland.
Our athletes, coaches, umpires, staff and volunteers have sacrificed so much to keep the season alive for our fans.
Many of you haven’t been able to attend matches this year, but your support has not gone unnoticed. Whether tuning into the broadcast via the Channel Nine coverage or the Netball Live app, or engaging in the conversation that elevates the league on social media, our fans have kept the spirit of the season high.
On behalf of the Netball Australia Board, thank you for your support of the Suncorp Super Netball League always, but especially this year. The support and passion that you have shown for your favourite team and players has been invaluable.
I hope you enjoy today’s Grand Final and I wish the Swifts and GIANTS the best of luck.
