At just 23, Grace Nweke is already making waves as one of the most in-form shooters in the world. As a new signing for the NSW Swifts in 2025, she is set to become a key player for the team in the Suncorp Super Netball competition. Grace’s incredible performance helped power the New Zealand Silver Ferns to a victorious Constellation Cup title over the Australian Diamonds, and with over 30 appearances for the Silver Ferns, she has proven herself as one of the top shooters in the world game.
The Debut to Remember
When asked about the match she’s most excited for, Grace’s answer was simple but powerful. “The first one – I’ve been itching to put the dress on and debut. It’s so powerful to get a number and write your name in history. I’ve had to do all the hard stuff first – moving here, away from my family and friends and persist through the preseason . Getting to play is the fun part”.
Grace is excited about her future with the Swifts, but there’s something uniquely special about playing in front of her home crowd. “Plus the second game – at home with our fans.”
Staying Close, Despite the Distance
Life off the court is just as important to Grace as her performance on it. Friendship and connection are key pillars of her well-being. She stays in touch with her two best friends, whom she’s known since high school, through their tradition of “Waffle Wednesday,” sending voice diaries and sharing memes. “We send each other a voice diaries about all sorts, inconsequential things... like if we got our nails done as well as big life updates.”
Her sister is another constant in her life. ”We’re in constant comms over text and call. You have to make the effort,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of nurturing close relationships.
Exploring Creativity Outside Netball
When Grace isn’t on the court, she finds joy in many creative outlets. Music plays a central role in her life. “I like curating playlists, finding new artists. I feel my happiest with mates on the dancefloor of a good gig,” she says, revealing her eclectic taste in music. “I like rap, indie, house and techno and UK Soul Hip-Hop – I love finding new stuff.”
Her passion for music isn’t just a pastime; it’s integrated into her game preparation. “I prep and shoot with music I am accurate with,” she notes, showing how her musical ear ties into her on-court rhythm.
Nature is another one of Grace’s passions. She enjoys going for walks and capturing moments on film. She’s also has a sewing machine she plans to bring back to Sydney, adding another creative pursuit to her already full plate.
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence
Reflecting on her childhood and early days in netball, Grace shares an emotional insight. "I struggled with confidence. I felt like an imposter, especially as a shooter." Despite her success, she admits that a part of her still carries that lack of confidence. But she has grown stronger over time, and now she looks back with a powerful message for her younger self: “I wish I could speak more life and confidence into 8-year-old or 14-year-old Grace and tell her it’s ok to be different, to be bad at things – that’s how you learn, I don’t need to have myself figured out.”
The Journey Continues
Grace Nweke’s journey is only just beginning. With a powerful mindset, a talent that’s impossible to ignore, and a heart full of passion for netball and life, she is poised to shape the future of the sport. We can only wait in anticipation to see how this remarkable athlete continues to inspire both on and off the court.
The best way to see Grace Nweke in action is by becoming a NSW Swifts Member! Our fantastic membership packages start at less than $29 per game.
Visit our Membership website to sign up now!
