‘One more week’: Vixens ‘hush-hush’ update on netball’s biggest signing day

It’s been arguably the biggest day in Super Netball history, as a host of stars announced their arrivals for 2026.

Leading the way was the Queensland Firebirds who signed New Zealand’s best defender in Kelly Jackson – making her the second Silver Fern in the competition, following in the footsteps of Grace Nweke.

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While Nweke was officially granted an exemption by Netball New Zealand to play in Australia and still represent the Ferns, the same will likely apply to Jackson, who has already been named in the squad to take on the Diamonds later this year.

And it’s widely tipped she won’t be the only Kiwi signing on for Super Netball.

Not to be outdone, the Adelaide Thunderbirds announced their own international recruit on Tuesday – South African goaler Elmere van der Berg who has been described as the “next Gretel Bueta”.

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Donnell Wallam also confirmed she was returning to Super Netball after a year playing in New Zealand, signing for the Sunshine Coast Lightning while Jamaican superstar Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard committed to the West Coast Fever for a ninth season.

Four massive internationals all signing on the same day.

Aussie netball great Bianca Chatfield said she loved seeing all the faces signing up to compete in Super Netball.

“The signings are coming through thick and fast for next season,” she said on Fox Sports.

“I’m hearing there’s a few more signings over the ditch to come.

“I personally think it’s exciting.

“I still think there’s plenty of opportunities for Australian players – but we want Super Netball to be the best competition in the world. I say bring out all the superstars and let’s see how they go.”

But while player signings are coming daily, we’re still yet to hear any update on the search for a new coach at both the Melbourne Vixens and Melbourne Mavericks.

While the Mavericks only announced Tracey Neville’s departure last week, the Vixens have been on the hunt since May – and are still yet to finalise their interview process.

“The Vixens have kept it very quiet who is even in the mix for that job,” Chatfield explained.

“I know they have one more week or one more round of interviews that they are doing before they get close to making that decision – it’s still very much hush-hush what’s happening at the Vixens.

“I think it will be a coach that comes through or has been through the Victorian pathway before.”

But whether McKinnis would sign on for crosstown rivals the Mavericks?

“The fact Tracey Neville has walked away from that job – that was the biggest shock. I don’t think anyone saw that coming,” Chatfield said.

“Mavs have to get themselves into gear quickly.

“If I was the Mavs, I would absolutely be going after her (McKinnis) – she would be such an asset to that club.

“I don’t think it will be Simone McKinnis but if I’m the Mavs, I’m doing everything I can to go and get her.”