GIANTS Netball has today announced the appointment of Nerida Stewart as the club’s new head coach.
Stewart has been a part of the GIANTS setup since 2024, initially joining as a specialist coach before serving this year as the club’s assistant coach alongside inaugural head coach Julie Fitzgerald.
Best known for her tenure as head coach of the Australian Kelpies, Stewart brings a wealth of elite coaching experience and tactical expertise to the role.
Her leadership with the Kelpies saw her guide the men’s national side to not only multiple trophies but the elevation of the program, solidifying her reputation as one of the most respected minds in Australian netball.
In addition to her success with the men’s program, Stewart has played a key role in the Netball NSW pathway, coaching state teams, NSWIS squads, and in the NNSW Premier League, where she has helped develop emerging talent across all levels of the game.
In stepping into the role, Stewart becomes just the second head coach in GIANTS Netball history, succeeding the legendary Julie Fitzgerald, who has led the club since its inception in 2017.
Stewart now takes the reins with the full support of the club and is tasked with continuing to build on the solid foundations laid over the past nine years.
Her appointment marks a new chapter for the GIANTS - one that combines continuity with fresh energy, as the club enters a new era of ambition, development, and competitive success.
With Stewart at the helm, the GIANTS are well-positioned to return as a strong force in the Suncorp Super Netball competition for years to come.
GIANTS Netball Executive General Manager, Tim Underwood, said the appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the club and reflects a confident step forward.
“As we enter a new era, there is no one better placed than Nerida to lead this group,” Mr Underwood said in congratulating Stewart.
“Her knowledge of the system, her relationship with our athletes, and her strategic mind made her the standout choice and we’re incredibly excited about what lies ahead under her leadership.
“Through the process, it became very clear that Nerida was the right person to lead us into the next chapter. She absolutely fits the culture we’ve worked hard to build over the years and aligns perfectly with the future direction of the GIANTS Netball program.”
“Ned [Stewart] is an outstanding coach and an even better person. She’s deeply respected and loved by the playing group for her approachability, her insight, and her commitment to developing each individual both on and off the court.”
In her first statement as head coach, Stewart said:
“I am honoured and humbled to take on the role of head coach at GIANTS Netball.
“Being part of this club since 2024 has been an incredible experience, and I have witnessed first-hand the dedication and talent of our players and staff.
“I’m excited to build on the fantastic foundation laid by Julie and the team. Our focus is on fostering a culture of excellence, resilience, and teamwork as we aim to achieve great success in the seasons ahead.
“I look forward to working with our players, staff, and supporters to create a proud and competitive GIANTS Netball team.”
