Lightning confirm 2026 leadership group
At the club’s Season Launch at Pier 33, Sunshine Coast Lightning confirmed its leadership group for the 2026 Suncorp Super Netball season.
Following the retirement of former Captain, Steph Fretwell at the end of last SSN season, the Club has announced Australian International Diamonds Player and Captain Liz Watson as it’s fifth Club Captain.
The Club’s leadership team will enter a new era, with fellow Diamond International Courtney Bruce and new recruit, Silver Ferns player and Captain Karin Burger supporting Watson as Vice Captains for the 2026 season.
Captain Liz Watson is looking forward to being given the opportunity to lead this club this season. With being in the role as Vice-Captain for the past two seasons, Liz is a well-recognised athlete in our sport and on the playing court and for her to Captain this team, is something in which our Members and fans should be incredibly excited about and proud of.
“I am incredibly honoured to be announced in this position. Sunshine Coast Lightning has had some incredible netball legends as Captains in the past and I’m very grateful to help continue the amazing work they have done, alongside Courtney and Karin and our incredible playing group.” she said.
With Courtney’s 3rd season with the Club, it is well-deserved recognition of her leadership on and off the court since joining the Club.
“Excited to step into the Vice Captain role alongside Karin, supporting Liz as she leads the way. Grateful for the trust and the opportunity to serve this team as we chase something special together.” Courtney said.
Our new recruit, Karin, this appointment is a testament to the professionalism and leadership which she has brought to the club in a short period of time.
“I’m truly honoured and humbled by the trust the team has placed in me. Joining a group with such experienced and accomplished leaders is a privilege. I see my role as contributing from my experience while also growing my own game and leadership within this new environment.” Karin said.
Head Coach Belinda Reynolds is incredibly proud to announce our leadership group for the season ahead.
“Liz is no stranger to leadership, not only within our environment but also as Captain of the Australian Diamonds. She brings a genuine winning mindset, is a consistent high performer both in games and on the training track and is the ultimate professional on and off the court. She sets the standard every single day,” she said.
“With Courtney Bruce and Karin Burger supporting Liz in the Vice Captain’s role, both are strong leaders in their own right and they complement Liz exceptionally well. They each bring different strengths and perspectives, and all three are big-game players who thrive under pressure.
“It’s clear to see their collective drive for this group to reach its full potential this year. They demand high standards, draw on their wealth of experience from past leadership roles, and connect with different parts of our squad. That was reflected strongly in our player votes, where each of them was extremely well represented.
“Their communication is open and honest, and they have built genuine connections not only with our players but with all staff across our Club. That alignment and unity will be critical to what we want to achieve this season. I have no doubt they will lead our club with pride and passion.”
Lightning will commence their 2026 season on Sunday 15 March, 3pm (AEST) against West Coast Fever in Perth. Members and fans will be able to watch their team in action for the Battle of the Bruce on Saturday 21 March, 4pm (AEST) at UniSC Arena. Purchase your tickets here so you don’t miss out.
