Sophie Dwyer has etched her name into GIANTS history, after being named the HCF Most Valuable Player for 2026, headlining a night of celebration at the GIANTS Netball Gala Dinner held at Le Montage in Sydney on Friday.
The Gala Dinner served as both a reflection on the achievements of 2026 and a celebration of a decade of GIANTS Netball, bringing together players, staff, members and supporters to honour the people who continue to drive the club forward.
The club’s most prestigious honour capped an impressive individual season for the 24-year-old, whose consistency, work rate and composure under pressure were key features of the GIANTS’ campaign.
The accolade comes off the back of a remarkable week for the shooter, having delivered a Player of the Match performance in the NSW Derby before being named in her maiden Commonwealth Games squad.
Dwyer’s court presence set her apart in 2026, consistently influential, lifting when needed and providing drive, connection and scoreboard impact - ranking second in the league for Super Shots alongside teammate Matisse Letherbarrow.
GIANTS Head Coach Nerida Stewart praised Dwyer’s consistency and competitiveness.
“What’s impressed me most is Sophie’s willingness to do the hard work right, not just in attack. She really set the tone for us in 2026,” Stewart said.
“She’s a competitor. When the game is on the line, she wants to be involved, and she finds a way to lift. That consistency and ability to impact big moments is what makes her so valuable to this group.
“She doesn’t just think about scoring, she’s focused on winning the ball back and creating opportunities for the team.”
In a testament to their continued influence within the squad, Amy Sligar and Erin O’Brien were voted Members’ Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year, marking the second consecutive season they have claimed the honours.
GIANTS debutant Audrey Little awarded the Marj Groves AM Scholarship.
Off the court, the invaluable contributions of staff and volunteers were also acknowledged. Team Manager Mele Tiauli was named Club Person of the Year, recognised for her tireless work behind the scenes, while Noel Fajardo received Volunteer of the Year honours for his ongoing dedication to the organisation.
