The NSW Swifts and local rivals Giants Netball are relocating to Queensland tonight due to the coronavirus outbreak in Sydney.
The NSW-based clubs have a bye this weekend, but the decision was made to relocate them to the Sunshine State to ensure the Suncorp Super Netball League can go ahead as planned.
The league is closely monitoring the situation in Sydney and working with the relevant health authorities to ensure all relocated clubs can return home as soon as safe to do so.
The league is working through logistics for the Round 9 clash between the Swifts and the West Coast Fever and further information will be provided in the coming days.
The game is currently due to be held next Saturday at Ken Rosewall Arena in Sydney Olympic Park and the league will provide an update on this in the coming days. This correspondence will also be shared with 2021 Members and Round 9 ticketholders who we thank for their patience at this time.
The Giants' Round 9 match against the Queensland Firebirds at Nissan Arena on Saturday 3 July will go ahead as fixtured.
Tain Drinkwater, CEO of Netball NSW who own and operate both clubs, thanked them for their professionalism and flexibility.
“I would like to thank the players, coaches and staff who are once again uprooting their lives to ensure the Super Netball season can continue uninterrupted,” she said.
“Everyone from both the Swifts and Giants took the news in their stride and are looking forward to playing.
“It is important to note that, unlike last year, this is only a temporary measure and we are hopeful of having both teams back in NSW sooner rather than later, and we will be working closely with the league on this.”
Netball Australia Chief Commercial Officer & Acting EGM Events, David Lee, also thanked the teams.
“The league thanks both clubs for their commitment and flexibility in these difficult circumstances,” Lee said.
“The league continues to balance the health and wellbeing of the athletes, coaches and staff with maintaining the Suncorp Super Netball competition.”
