Melbourne Vixens announce Watson departure

The star midcourter played 134 games for the Vixens across 10 seasons in the ANZ Championship and SSN competitions, including the club’s 2014 and 2020 championships.

Watson made her debut as a replacement player in 2014, named Rookie of the Year after playing a key role in the Vixens’ successful championship campaign.

Debuting for the Australian Diamonds in 2016, Watson received the Liz Ellis Diamond – the highest individual accolade in Australian netball – just two years later, and again in 2022. Named captain in 2021, Watson has since led the Diamonds to claim every international title including Commonwealth Games and World Cup gold.

The 2023 SSN season saw Watson lead the competition for feeds (581) and claim a record-breaking fourth Sharelle McMahon Medal as the club’s most valuable player.

“We’re disappointed to lose an athlete of Liz’s calibre and leadership standing, but we respect her decision to seek a new opportunity and environment, and wish her the best for the next period of her career,” said General Manager Vixens, Performance & Pathways Megan Simpson.

“It’s difficult to quantify the impact of a player like Lizzy on our club,” said head coach Simone McKinnis OAM.

“Over 10 years she’s created an invaluable legacy of driving standards, building a positive and supportive team culture and engaging with our Victorian netball community which is something she should be proud of, and we thank Liz for that lasting contribution.”

“Being able to play in Victoria, my home state, for such a long time has been incredible,” said Watson.

“The Vixens family has given me so many amazing opportunities and I have loved being a part of the netball community here in Victoria, and it’s something I’m passionate about continuing to pursue.”

Further announcements regarding the Vixens’ 2024 list will be made in due course.