Team Girls Cup: Talking Points

As the 2025 season approaches, the Team Girls Cup provided a perfect showcase of the GIANTS’ depth, talent, and promising new additions. From standout performances by established players to exciting contributions from the rising stars, the weekend delivered plenty of talking points as the team gears up for the season ahead. Here's a closer look at some of the key highlights from the tournament. 

1. Midcourt Depth  

The GIANTS proved that they have plenty of options in the midcourt, with all four contracted midcourters - Jamie-Lee Price, Maddie Hay, Amy Sligar and Hope White – showcasing their versatility throughout the weekend. Each player excelled in two, if not three midcourt positions across the course of the four matches. The versatility and strategic approach was evident from the first game of the weekend, when coach Julie Fitzgerald started Price in wing defence, matching up Australian Diamonds captain Liz Watson. Hay (a former wing defence) showed she’s still got it, as she played in wing defence as well as the other two midcourt positions.   

2. High Hopes for White 

Quick to catch the eye and have her name on the watch list this year, is recently elevated, permanent replacement player Hope White. Having impressed at National and International underage netball, the 18-year-old has made a seamless transition into the elite level. Playing plenty of minutes at the recent pre-season tournament, the Newcastle local showcased her speed, agility and defensive prowess. With a strong understanding of the game, White offers both first and second-phase options, confidently feeding the ball into the circle and showing great potential for the season ahead. 

3. Tilly’s Back 

In her first appearance since the club’s pre-season trip to Tasmania in December last year, Tilly McDonell made a strong return in her one game in Adelaide on the weekend. On modified minutes, as she continues to return from knee soreness, McDonell played all four quarter in game two against the Adelaide Thunderbirds. Playing two quarters at goal keeper and two quarters at goal defence, the GIANTS’ longest serving defender recorded two intercepts, one deflection and ranked third for the team in Nissan Net Points. McDonell will continue to increase her load in the final weeks of pre-season ahead of round one on Sunday, April 6.  

4. Hundred Percent for Harten 

Co-captain Jo Harten was in outstanding form across her two games at Netball SA Stadium last weekend, further cementing her status as one of the league’s premier shooters. Playing against both the Sunshine Coast Lightning and Melbourne Vixens, Harten shot a perfect 100% on the one-point shot across both games, demonstrating her accuracy and versatility.  

5. Talented Youngsters Shine 

Team Girls Cup highlighted the incredible talent of the GIANTS’ rising stars, with Monika ‘Otai, Audrey Little, Jamie Podmore-Taylor and Olivia Harris stepping up and impressing throughout the tournament. These talented youngsters not only showcased their skill and athleticism but also displayed resilience and versatility, each making their mark throughout each area of the court. The young talent at the GIANTS continues to grow and develop and their ability to seamlessly integrate into the Super Netball environment and game plan is testament to the program and the individuals.   

6. Netball is Now on Binge 

In 2025, there are more ways than ever to catch all the exciting action of Suncorp Super Netball. Alongside Foxtel and Kayo Sports, netball fans can now enjoy every moment of the game live on Binge! Whether you’re at home or on the go, there’s no shortage of ways to stay connected to the fast-paced, thrilling action. With a variety of streaming platforms and viewing options, you won’t miss a single play, no matter where you are.  For more information click here.

Next Match

The GIANTS will next take on the New Zealand franchise – Te Wānanga o Raukawa Pulse - on Monday, March 24 at Netball Central. Members are entitled to free entry but must redeem a ticket, while tickets are available to the general public for $20 and can be purchased here.