As we edge towards the halfway point of the season, all the Super Netball teams are having a tough time with consistency. Even the undefeated NSW Swifts hadn’t managed to put in a complete 60-minute performance until Sunday. It was a surprise to see them win their first opening quarter in a month against the Giants, setting the stage for a solid victory of 82-69. The Sunshine Coast Lightning secured second place with a 62-50 win over the Melbourne Vixens, where Simone McKinnis caught us off guard by announcing her departure as head coach at the end of the season.
The highlight of the round was the intense game between the Adelaide Thunderbirds and West Coast Fever, where both teams’ Jamaican shooters continued their pursuit to 9,000 goals. Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard’s 53 goals helped the Fever secure a 67-61 win, bringing her just 12 goals away from the milestone. Meanwhile, the Melbourne Mavericks are starting to make a name for themselves in Hobart after defeating the Queensland Firebirds 71-64. If you missed any of the action, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with our Super Netball Round-Up.
McKinnis’ Surprise Exit
In a twist of events, Simone McKinnis coached her 200th game in the national netball league in round five, only to quietly announce her decision to step down from her role after 13 seasons in round six. Despite the Vixens currently sitting in seventh place with just two wins, McKinnis made it clear that this was her decision. The players were emotional upon hearing the news, with Captain Kate Moloney stating that the announcement should serve as motivation for the team to turn their season around.
McKinnis, known for her dedication to the Melbourne Vixens, has led the team to two premierships and four grand finals, including last year. As Netball Victoria gears up for the recruiting process, it’s uncertain who will fill McKinnis’ shoes. Names like Dylan Nexhip, Cathy Fellows, and Nicole Richardson have surfaced as potential candidates, but the sport’s tight-lipped nature leaves us guessing. With McKinnis not using the word “retirement,” her future in the coaching space remains a mystery.
Bueta’s Potential Comeback?
Is one of the best goal attacks in the game, Gretel Bueta, making a comeback? After stepping away to focus on her family in 2024, Bueta seems to be reconsidering her decision as she works on regaining fitness post the birth of her third child. A recent Instagram video showing Bueta practicing shooting alongside Australian head coach Stacey Marinkovich sparked rumors of a return to the court. While it was initially dismissed as a clinic, Marinkovich’s comments on a potential comeback have fans buzzing with excitement.
Bueta’s future in netball remains uncertain, with no current affiliation to a Super Netball or Queensland state team. However, with Diamonds contracts set to be announced later in the season, Bueta’s comeback could be on the horizon. As Australia gears up for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and a 2027 home World Cup, Bueta’s experience and skill would be a valuable addition to the national team. With the likes of Sophie Dwyer and Sophie Garbin facing form issues, Bueta’s return could provide the boost the team needs.