2026 Ballarat Blitz wrap

There was no shortage of Victorian talent on display among the interstate teams, including the Adelaide Thunderbirds’ Matila Garrett, West Coast Fever’s Alice Teague-Neeld, Jordan Cransberg and Olivia Wilkinson, along with NSW Swifts’ Sharni Lambden — all emerging through Victorian pathways.

There was plenty happening away from the court with hundreds of junior athletes, coaches and umpires participating in clinics and workshops. Fans had the chance to meet their championship winning heroes and get up close to the 2025 Suncorp Super Netball Trophy which was on display, creating plenty of special moments.

With record crowd numbers and participation, the 2026 Ballarat Blitz has been the biggest version of the event so far. The Melbourne Vixens would like to thank the City of Ballarat and Victorian Government for their support in the Ballarat Blitz.

RESULTS

Saturday, 21st February Adelaide Thunderbirds 64 def NSW Swifts 59 [WATCH THE REPLAY]
Melbourne Vixens 61 def West Coast Fever 53 [WATCH THE REPLAY]

Sunday, 22nd February West Coast Fever 64 def NSW Swifts 61 [WATCH THE REPLAY] Adelaide Thunderbirds 64 def Melbourne Vixens 59 [WATCH THE REPLAY]

WHAT WE SAW

With a few forced changes to the squad heading into the weekend, including defenders Emily Mannix and Kate Eddy unavailable, it created a valuable opportunity for our training partners to step onto the court. Vixens Head Coach Di Honey made the most of the moment, rotating combinations and switching bibs across both games to explore new connections. The changes also saw Vixens Academy and VNL Boroondara Express defender Ruby Pekin-Schlicht earn important court time, adding depth and strengthening the defensive end.

Game 1 – Vixens v Fever

The Vixens claimed victory over the West Coast Fever with a dominant second-half surge, turning the momentum in their favour through relentless defensive pressure and composed midcourt play. Kiera Austin injected plenty of energy into the team after entering the contest in the second quarter, collecting four gains and providing the spark that helped shift the contest. The Vixens’ midcourt controlled the tempo and disrupted Fever’s attacking flow, with Kate Moloney instrumental in attack, delivering 33 circle feeds for the game. The Vixens’ full-court defence was a standout feature, highlighted by Maggie Carris’ crucial rejection and sustained pressure from Rudi Ellis.

Game 2 – Vixens v Thunderbirds

The Vixens capitalised strongly off defensive ball early, demonstrating composure and efficiency in transition to generate scoring opportunities. Garbin provided reliability in the goal circle, finishing strongly to keep the Vixens within striking distance. The side consistently created high-percentage chances through smooth midcourt flow and well-timed circle entries. Ultimately, the result came down to execution under pressure in the final quarter where small lapses proved costly.

FROM THE VIXENS

Following the games, Sharelle McMahon - General Manager of High Performance & Pathways said:

“Taking the game to regional centres is something we’re really proud of. It’s about inspiring the next generation and strengthening our connection with communities like Ballarat, who play such a vital role in Victorian netball.”

“The Blitz is such an important part of our preparation. It gives us the chance to test combinations, build connections and put in the hard work ahead of Round 1, and I was really pleased with the progress we showed across the weekend.”

“The support we received was outstanding. From young children in the stands to lifelong netball supporters, the passion in Ballarat really lifted the players and created a fantastic atmosphere.”

WHAT'S NEXT

Sunday 1 March - Melbourne Vixens Fan Day at Federation Square including the official dress presentation and opportunities to meet all the players.

Thursday 5 March - Vixens head to Bound 4 Bendigo, facing cross-town rivals the Melbourne Mavericks and the Bendigo Strikers at Red Energy Arena. Tickets are on-sale and are available via Ticketek now.