For Ellie Hart, netball has always been about more than just the game.
Starting her journey at just five years old on the grass courts of Camden, Ellie quickly fell in love with the sport and the community that came with it. From local development squads to representative netball, her progression has been built on resilience, navigating disrupted seasons during COVID before earning her place in the state pathway.
A standout moment came early, when she was selected in a train-on squad above her age group, gaining valuable experience alongside older athletes. Since then, Ellie has gone from strength to strength—earning selection in the NSW 17s State Team, gaining Australian squad recognition, and continuing her pathway through both 17s and 19s programs.
Now part of the Giants Academy, Ellie describes the environment as both challenging and inspiring, giving her the opportunity to train and compete alongside some of the best emerging talent in the country. In 2026, she steps into a leadership role as captain, an honour she doesn’t take lightly.
“I feel really grateful that my teammates see me as a leader,” she says. “Even making these teams is such a big achievement, so to captain is really special.”
As Nationals approach in mid-April, Ellie’s focus is clear. For her, success isn’t just about results, it’s about connection.
“As a team, we want to stay connected and play for each other. Personally, I just want to play my best netball and give everything I’ve got.”
Off the court, Ellie keeps things simple. She values time with family and friends and enjoys switching off from the intensity of elite sport—something she believes is key to maintaining balance.
One of her more unique hobbies? Weekly pottery classes with her mum.
“I’m not very good at it,” she laughs, “but it’s fun.”
Looking ahead, Ellie has her sights set on the top levels of the game, with aspirations to one day play in Suncorp Super Netball and represent Australia. But at her core, it’s not just about accolades.
“Netball has given me so many friendships and life lessons. It’s shaped who I am, both on and off the court.”
Grounded, driven, and team-first in her mindset, Ellie Hart is a player to watch as she leads her side into Nationals—bringing not just talent, but heart, to every moment on court.
Ellie is set to lead her 19/U NSW squad at the National Championships from April 9–15 in Victoria. With the nation’s best young talent on show, the tournament marks another exciting step in her journey, one that fans can follow live via KommunityTV.
