Di Honey appointed new head coach

Honey beat out a competitive and world-class shortlist of candidates from both Australia and overseas for one of the most coveted coaching roles in netball.

The former Australian Diamond replaces Simone McKinnis OAM, who stepped down at the end of the 2025 season after 13 years at the Vixens’ helm.

Honey has been an integral part of the Vixens’ coaching team across much of McKinnis’ tenure, serving as assistant coach since 2014 and playing a crucial role in three championships, won in 2014, 2020 and this year.

Netball Victoria CEO Andrea Pearman said Honey had a proven track record over her time at the Vixens as an innovative coach and for building a strong rapport with the players.

“Di is a person of outstanding character who has already made a significant and positive contribution to the Vixens," said Pearman.

"What became increasingly apparent through a thorough recruitment process is that she is also the right person to lead the next phase of success at the Vixens, starting with their title defence in 2026."

Netball Victoria President Carol Cathcart said Honey’s commitment to the Victorian pathway was notable throughout the interview process.

“The selection panel, led by Vixens General Manager Sharelle McMahon, was impressed by Di’s deep commitment to supporting our pathway teams and competitions, so we can identify and develop the talent that is so important to sustained success,” said Cathcart.

“Her appointment, for an initial two years with an additional year’s option, is not only a credit to Di, but also to the depth of talent and experience that we have at the Vixens and indeed across Victorian netball.”

Honey said she was thrilled to be taking on the senior coaching role at the Vixens and excited by the task ahead.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with such a brilliant group of athletes who also happen to be great people, which makes my job that much easier.

“As the reigning champions we will go into next year as the hunted, so we are going to have to be more committed and work harder than ever before – although I am a firm believer in having some fun along the way.

“I’m looking forward to putting my own stamp on how we go about maintaining the high standards this club has set for itself over many years, so the Vixens can continue to enjoy success now and for seasons to come.”

Honey’s extensive coaching experience includes stints as a specialist coach with the Australian Diamonds, as head coach of Super Netball development team Victorian Fury and as a development coach at the Victorian Institute of Sport.

She wore the Diamonds uniform in 17 matches from 1985-1988, including at the 1987 World Titles where Australia won silver.