The 2026 Suncorp Super Netball season will kick off in Bendigo, Australia, on March 14, featuring a highly anticipated match between the Melbourne Mavericks and the Giants. The season opener will take place at the Red Energy Arena starting at 17:00 local time.
Bendigo’s selection as the host city is a significant achievement, especially following Australia’s recent victory over South Africa, where they secured a 64-53 win at the same arena. This match showcased the city’s capability to attract elite sporting events, evidenced by the passionate crowds that attended.
Stacey West, Chief Executive Officer of Suncorp Super Netball, expressed enthusiasm about the event. “Bendigo has always delivered electric crowds,” she noted. “The heart and energy of one of Australia’s most passionate netball communities will be on display as they ignite the start of the season.”
The city’s reputation in netball continues to grow, particularly with the success of the Bendigo Strikers in the Victorian Netball League. The Strikers have established a strong connection with the Mavericks, as their head coach, Tracey Brereton, also leads the Mavericks’ reserves team. Notably, the reserves squad for next season will include Strikers’ players Teal Hocking and Charlotte Sexton, who recently contributed to Australia’s victory at the Netball Youth Cup.
The Mavericks are eager to showcase their new recruits, including Jamie-Lee Price, Tara Hinchliffe, and Reilley Batcheldor, at their first home game of the season. General Manager Shae Bolton-Brown highlighted the excitement surrounding the event, stating, “The region has an incredible passion for netball, as seen with the response to previous Suncorp Super Netball matches and the recent clash of the Australian Diamonds.”
This match is particularly significant for Price, who will face her former team, the Giants, for the first time. Last year, she was awarded the prestigious Liz Ellis Diamond for her outstanding performances.
The ongoing development of the Red Energy Arena reinforces its status as a premier venue for elite sports in Bendigo. In addition to being home to the defending WNBL champions, the Bendigo Spirit, the arena will also host Melbourne United for two NBL games in January as part of the Ignite Cup tournament.
The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, emphasized the economic impact of the upcoming SSN clash, stating, “This game will attract visitors from across the state, filling hotel rooms, restaurants, and cafes, providing a significant boost for Bendigo businesses.”
In anticipation of the match, the Mavericks have introduced an exclusive membership for the Bendigo region, offering fans discounted tickets to the season opener and other home games. As the excitement builds for the first match of the 2026 season, Bendigo prepares to welcome netball enthusiasts and showcase its vibrant sporting culture.
