UPDATE: The highly anticipated Suncorp Super Netball season kicks off in Bendigo on March 14, 2026, featuring a thrilling showdown between the Melbourne Mavericks and the Giants. This opening match is set to take place at the Red Energy Arena starting at 5 PM.
This is a significant moment for Bendigo, which has recently emerged as a prominent hub for netball. The opportunity to host the first game of the 2026 season follows Australia’s impressive victory over South Africa, where they triumphed 64-53 in a match held at the same venue last month.
SSN Chief Executive Officer Stacey West expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating,
“Bendigo has always delivered electric crowds – we saw it with the Australian Diamonds in October – and now with the 2026 season opener starting off here, fans will experience all the skill and passion that makes Suncorp Super Netball the world’s best netball league.”
The region’s reputation for netball excellence continues to grow, highlighted by the success of the Bendigo Strikers, who have played two seasons in the Victorian Netball League. The Strikers maintain a strong connection with the Mavericks, as their head coach, Tracey Brereton, also leads the Mavericks reserves team.
Mavericks General Manager Shae Bolton-Brown emphasized the excitement surrounding the upcoming game, stating,
“We’re so excited to bring our first home game of the season to Bendigo. The region has an incredible passion for netball. This is a fantastic opportunity for fans to see our new recruits Jamie-Lee Price, Tara Hinchliffe, and Reilley Batcheldor in Mavericks colours for the very first time.”
A key player to watch is Jamie-Lee Price, who will face her former team, the Giants, for the first time after an impressive eight-year tenure. Price was honored with last year’s Liz Ellis Diamond award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to both the Giants and the Australian team.
The Red Energy Arena has become a vital venue for elite sports in Bendigo, not only hosting the defending WNBL champions, the Bendigo Spirit, but also upcoming NBL matches in January. These events are expected to provide a substantial boost to local tourism, as Steve Dimopoulos, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, noted,
“This game will attract visitors from across the state, filling hotel rooms, restaurants, and cafes in a huge boost for Bendigo businesses.”
As the excitement builds for the Mavericks’ season opener, an exclusive Bendigo membership has been launched, offering fans discounted tickets to the match and other home games.
The anticipation for March 14 is palpable, with a passionate crowd expected to support the Mavericks in what promises to be an electrifying start to the Suncorp Super Netball season.
Stay tuned for more updates as the event approaches!
