Swifts Legend, Mo'onia Gerrard to be Inducted into Hall of Fame

Sydney Swifts legend and former Australian Diamond Mo’onia Gerrard is being officially inducted into the Hall of Champions, recognising her outstanding contribution to Australian netball and her lasting influence both on and off the court.

Wearing the famous Swifts number #32, Gerrard was a force of nature known for her uncompromising defence, athleticism, and leadership. Joining the Sydney Swifts in 2004 after standout performances with the Sydney Sandpipers, she quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s success. Over her four seasons with the Swifts (2004–2007), Gerrard was not only a defensive powerhouse but also a respected leader, eventually captaining the side during her tenure. Her time in the red dress cemented her reputation as one of the game’s fiercest competitors and most admired teammates.

Gerrard’s journey in elite netball began in 1999, when she made her debut with the Sydney Sandpipers in the Commonwealth Bank Trophy. Her impact was immediate, she was named Best New Talent in her debut season, a sign of the exceptional career that was to follow. In 2003, she claimed the Players’ Player Award for the Sandpipers, earning the admiration of her peers for her skill, determination, and sportsmanship.

After her success with the Swifts, Gerrard joined the Adelaide Thunderbirds in 2008, where she reached new heights as co-captain. Under her leadership, the Thunderbirds captured the 2010 ANZ Championship, a crowning moment in her domestic career. Gerrard later returned to New South Wales, rejoining the Swifts in 2011 and serving as co-captain from 2012 to 2013, before concluding her decorated club career.

On the international stage, Gerrard’s record is equally remarkable. She represented the Australian Diamonds in 68 Test matches, helping lead the team to two Netball World Cup victories in 2007 and 2011. Her brilliance was further recognised in 2010, when she was named Australian International Player of the Year, following her instrumental role in the Diamonds’ silver-medal campaign at the Delhi Commonwealth Games.

Beyond her playing days, Gerrard’s influence extended well beyond the court. In 2014, she was a Finalist in the NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year Awards, honouring her leadership and community impact. Two years later, she received one of Australia’s highest honours, the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in recognition of her service to netball and to the community.

In a testament to her enduring love for the game, Gerrard made an inspiring return in 2023 to represent Tonga in their historic first appearance at the Netball World Cup. Her commitment to developing netball across cultures and supporting Pacific athletes highlights her ongoing legacy as a role model and ambassador for the sport.

Mo’onia Gerrard’s induction into the Hall of Champions celebrates not just her decorated career, but her spirit, resilience, and leadership. From her early days as a rising star with the Sandpipers to her commanding presence in the red of the Swifts and green and gold of the Diamonds, Gerrard’s contribution to netball has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her name will now stand among the legends of the game, a fitting honour for a player whose impact continues to inspire generations of athletes to come.