The NSW Swifts begin their quest for an eighth Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) premiership when they face the West Coast Fever in a thrilling Round 1 contest on Sunday 6 April in Perth.
With the Fever having won the last two encounters between these two teams, it’s set to be an exciting and high-stakes match. The spotlight will be on the clash between the Swifts' powerful attacking duo and the Fever’s strong defensive unit.
“I think our biggest contender is West Coast Fever, I think they're pretty exciting,” Swifts Goal Attack Helen Housby said. “They are a really good team and they work really well in defence. Any time they step up you know it's going to be a massive, massive battle especially with their home advantage.”
Standing at an impressive 1.93m, new recruit Grace Nweke, who is widely regarded as one of the most in-form shooters in world netball, is the biggest signing in SSN history.
“Grace is incredible on the court - she's a weapon,” Housby said.
“I think she's a goal attack’s dream to be honest. She's so dominant that it makes my job really easy to work off her. I've seen her sink super shots. I've seen her come out and move - she's very, very athletic. She comes from a high jump background so she can take balls in the air.
“And then off the court, she's been amazing. She's a great girl. She's brought her culture with her and we’ve just loved getting to know her and to play with her is really special.
Nweke will back Housby in attack, the Swifts' centurion and one of the most accomplished players in the league. Known for her long-range shooting and clutch moments, Housby’s ability to land Super Shots in crucial moments will be key for the Swifts.
Grace Whyte joins the team for the Fever clash, with Sophie Fawns stepping out of this match. Fawns has travelled to Perth and is available to play if an emergency replacement is needed.
The Swifts will face a formidable defensive challenge from the West Coast Fever’s backline, including Fran Williams, the English Roses captain and Fever’s standout defender.
Williams, in her first season with the Fever in 2024, made an immediate impact, finishing second in the league for defensive rebounds. Her experience and leadership will be pivotal as she takes on Housby, her fellow English international.
Also in the Fever defence is Kadie-Ann Dehaney, Ruth Aryang and Sunday Aryang, who all provide height and create immense pressure in the defensive end, making the Fever’s defence a tough nut to crack for the Swifts attack.
With the Swifts bolstered by their dynamic attacking duo of Nweke and Housby, and the Fever relying on their experienced and formidable defence, fans can expect a thrilling start to the 2025 season.
The Round 1 match is set to be a fierce battle between two powerhouses of the league, with both teams hungry for early-season dominance.
The match will take place at 4pm (AEST) on Sunday, 6 April at the RAC. NSW Swifts fans can watch from the comfort of their home on Kayo Sports, Foxtel, and for the first time, on Binge.
Swifts Preliminary Team List:
Paige Hadley, Helen Housby, Sarah Klau, Sharni Lambden, Grace Nweke, Teigan O’Shannassy, Verity Simmons*, Allie Smith, Maddy Turner, Grace Whyte.
*Permanent Replacement Player
NSW Swifts
