2025

The GIANTS entered season 2025 determined to re-establish themselves and return to finals contention.

While the opening half of the season proved challenging as the team worked to find consistency and settle combinations, there were important moments that revealed the group’s potential.  

The breakthrough came in round four, when the GIANTS claimed their first win of the season against the reigning premiers, the Adelaide Thunderbirds - a statement performance that stood as their only victory of the first half of the year but demonstrated their capability to match it with one the competition’s best. 

Adversity struck soon after, with Jodi-Ann Ward suffering an unfortunate ACL injury that sidelined the defender for the remainder of the season. In response, international legend Casey Kopua made the remarkable decision to come out of retirement and sign as a replacement player. Her arrival brought invaluable experience, composure and leadership to the defensive unit, providing stability during a period of disruption and further reinforcing the club’s fighting spirit. 

Momentum began to build again in round nine with a second victory over the Adelaide Thunderbirds - a result that proved to be a turning point in the campaign. That win sparked a resurgent second half of the season, with the GIANTS going on to claim four wins from their final seven matches, including victories over the Thunderbirds, Lightning, Firebirds and Mavericks.  

The surge showcased a side building belief, cohesion and confidence, with sharper execution and greater composure in key moments signalling genuine growth and potential. 

While the year featured poignant farewells to three of the club’s stalwarts – Jo Harten (retirement), Julie Fitzgerald (retirement) and Jamie-Lee Price (personal reasons) - it also highlighted the bright future of the club.  

Following her Super Netball debut in round one, Hope White capped off a huge year by winning gold with Australia at the Netball World Youth Cup, confirming her status as one of the country’s most exciting young prospects.  

Amy Sligar and Erin O’Brien both produced breakout campaigns, elevating their consistency and impact across the season. Their outstanding form was rewarded with the opportunity to attend the 2025–26 Origin Diamonds camp, while Sligar’s elite performances saw her named at wing defence in the Suncorp Super Netball Team of the Year.  

The trio showcased the exciting future of the club and the strength of its high-performance pathway. 

Individual excellence was also recognised at season’s end. Amy Sligar took out the Members’ Player of the Year, Erin O’Brien was voted by her peers as the Players’ Player, and Jamie-Lee Price claimed the Club’s HCF Most Valuable Player award. Price’s influence extended beyond the domestic competition, with the inspirational midcourter also crowned the prestigious Liz Ellis Diamond for her performances throughout 2025 as both a GIANT and a Diamond. 

Although the season presented its share of challenges, the powerful finish, the emergence of new Diamonds talent, international youth success and the celebration of two extraordinary careers ensured 2025 will be remembered as a year of resilience, transition and promise. United in purpose and strengthened by change, the GIANTS move into the future with confidence and belief.