At just 19 years of age, Grace Whyte has been elevated to the 11th Player for the NSW Swifts for the upcoming 2025 Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) season. A rising star in Australian netball, Whyte’s elevation marks an exciting new chapter in her journey with the Swifts, as she continues to make her mark in the elite level of the sport.
“I’m absolutely thrilled and incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be the 11th Player for the Swifts in 2025,” Whyte said. “To be given this role at such a young age is a huge step forward in my career, and I can’t wait to continue learning and growing alongside such an amazing group of players. This opportunity is a dream come true, and I’m ready to make the most of it.”
Hailing from Tumut, a regional town in New South Wales, Whyte’s journey to the Swifts has been nothing short of remarkable. She progressed through the Netball NSW Pathway as a member of various underage state teams before being selected for the QBE Swifts Academy in 2022. Known for her attacking prowess and dynamic playing style, Whyte quickly earned recognition as one of the brightest young talents in the game.
In 2024, she was elevated to the Swifts Training Partner and made her debut on court against the Melbourne Vixens. Her impressive performances saw her progress to the role of rookie athlete with the Swifts, a testament to her potential and dedication.
“I feel so lucky to have had such an incredible journey with the Swifts already,” she added. “The last year has been a whirlwind, and I’ve learned so much from my teammates and coaches. I’m excited to take on this new role and bring everything I can to the team in 2025.”
The 11th Player initiative was introduced in 2024 by Netball Australia to provide SSN clubs the chance to bring in an additional athlete to the match day squad. This player is available for tactical purposes, not just in the event of injury or illness to a regular squad member. It gives rising players, like Whyte, more opportunities to step onto the court, gain valuable match experience, and continue their development at the top level of netball.
Swifts Head Coach Briony Akle expressed her excitement about Whyte’s promotion, emphasizing the young athlete’s growth and potential.
“We’re so excited to elevate Grace to the 11th Player role,” Akle said. “Grace has an incredible work ethic and her confidence on the court is something that really stands out. She’s got a natural flair and fearless approach that we’re looking to develop further. Having had the chance to play in Super Netball already, she’s gained some invaluable experience, and that will only help her as she continues to grow as a player.”
Akle continued, “I’m thrilled to see how Grace will contribute in 2025. She has an energy about her that’s infectious, and I know she’s ready to take on this challenge. The 11th Player role will provide her with the opportunity to keep pushing her limits and building on what she’s already achieved.”
For Whyte, this new opportunity as the 11th Player is a stepping stone in what promises to be an exciting career with the Swifts. As she continues to develop her game, her presence in the squad will provide depth and added flexibility for the team throughout the season.
“Being surrounded by such experienced and talented players every day is incredibly inspiring,” Whyte said. “I’ve learned so much already, and I’m looking forward to playing my part in whatever way I can for the team. We’ve got a great squad and I’m excited to see where we can go in 2025.”
With Whyte’s talent and determination, alongside the Swifts' experienced core, the team is set for another exciting season of SSN action.
NSW Swifts
