2026 Ballarat Blitz preview

This weekend will feature the top four Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) teams in a round robin. Off the court, the Vixens can be spotted in school visits, community clinics and our meet & greet session with the team - officially launching the Vixens’ year and celebrating netball across the region.

Defender Emily Mannix is set to return after missing the 2025 season due to parental leave, providing the squad with a welcome boost in both leadership and defence. After a standout finish to 2025, Maggie Caris has proudly earned her spot in the Vixens squad as the team’s 11th player.

The Ballarat Blitz is made possible by the support of the City of Ballarat and the Victorian Government.

EVENT DETAILS

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WHAT’S ON

Saturday 21st February

• 3pm – NSW Swifts vs Adelaide Thunderbirds

• 5.15 pm – Melbourne Vixens vs West Coast Fever

Sunday 22nd February

• 11am – West Coast Fever vs NSW Swifts

• 1.15pm – Melbourne Vixens vs Adelaide Thunderbirds

*Please note that all matches will be livestreamed via the Vixens' YouTube channel.

THE COACH SAYS

“It is always special and a great chance to connect with the community and bring the Vixens experience to fans outside of Melbourne,” said head coach Di Honey.

“With our Aussie Diamonds players returning from the Jamaica Test Series, this weekend is a key opportunity to reconnect, rebuild combinations and fine-tune our chemistry ahead of the season.”

“We’re also really looking forward to the challenge this weekend. Facing the Fever again has the feel of a Grand Final rematch. It’s the high-quality challenge we need to sharpen our game and lay the foundations for 2026.”

SQUAD UPDATE

“It’s great to have Em back with us. Her experience, leadership, and energy bring a huge boost to our defense, and having her on the court makes the whole team stronger,” said Honey.

“Maggie brings tremendous value to our squad. After stepping in as Em’s replacement last year, she rose to the occasion, and it’s been fantastic to watch her continue developing into the player she is today.”

BALLARAT BLITZ SQUAD LIST:

Zali Anderson
Kiera Austin (VC)
Maggie Caris
Kate Eddy
Rudi Ellis
Sophie Garbin
Lily Graham
Mia Lavis
Kate Moloney (C)
Emily Mannix
Hannah Mundy
Ally O'Connor
Jo Weston
Zara Walters
Jo Weston