The 2025 Netball NSW Premier League came to a dramatic close yesterday, as both Grand Finals delivered heart-stopping finishes in front of a passionate crowd at Ken Rosewall Arena.
After 18 rounds of elite netball and five months of fierce competition, the season reached its climax with a blockbuster doubleheader.
Here’s how the action unfolded.
GWS Fury have claimed the 2025 Netball NSW Premier League 23U title, edging out fierce rivals Panthers in a gripping Grand Final that capped off one of the most tightly contested seasons in recent memory.
The two teams were evenly matched all year, having split their regular season clashes and finishing first and second on the ladder. Fury punched their ticket to the Grand Final with a dramatic one-goal win in the semi-final, while the Panthers rebounded strongly in the preliminary final to earn their rematch.
Fury struck first in the high-intensity decider and maintained a narrow lead throughout, handling the pressure with poise and discipline across all four quarters.
Final GWS Fury 57 – 55 Panthers
Goal attack Ava Moller proved instrumental in the victory, delivering a composed performance in the shooting circle and stepped up during crucial moments.
GWS held the advantage at every break and withstood a late surge from the Panthers, who closed the gap with a three-goal run before Fury secured the final goal of the match to seal a two-goal win.
GWS Fury captain Eve Vaitusi reflected on the premiership with pride and gratitude;
“This team is my second family. I really enjoyed going to trainings and playing every Wednesday.
We had a great few games at the start of the season, dipped a bit, and then came back so strong. I’m just grateful that I was able to play with the people that I did.
To win means so much”
The result marks GWS Fury’s third 23U title in the past decade, a testament to the squad’s consistency, resilience, and standout performances throughout the season.
Ava Moller was awarded the prestigious President’s Medal as Player of the Match, recognised for her composure under pressure and her decisive impact in the Grand Final.
Manly Warringah Sapphires have been crowned the 2025 Netball NSW Premier League Opens Champions, producing a sensational second-half comeback to defeat North Shore United in a gripping Grand Final at Ken Rosewall Arena.
In a contest worthy of the league’s 10th anniversary, the Sapphires overturned a five-goal halftime deficit to emerge 48-44 winners, securing their third Opens title and reaffirming their status as one of the Premier League’s most decorated clubs.
Down 23 - 28 at the main break, Manly Warringah rallied in the third quarter, lifting their defensive intensity and unleashing a wave of attacking precision.
Sapphires Captain Latika Tombs, who marked her 10th year with the franchise, was full of praise for her team’s resilience;
"What an incredible journey it's been. From tight turnarounds and late setbacks we've stuck together and fought hard every step of the way.
I'm so proud of everything we have achieved and even more excited to see what's to come.”
The Sapphires’ 2025 campaign began with a HeartKids Cup win and ended with the ultimate prize, testament to the program’s strong pathway, composed leadership, and unwavering community support.
North Shore United, who led for much of the match, were valiant in defeat. They finish the season as minor premiers and with the pride of pushing the champions to the very end.
Manly Warringah Sapphires player Audrey Little was awarded the Presidents Medal.
As celebrations begin for Manly Warringah Sapphires, the 2025 Netball NSW Premier League season concludes with a fitting reminder of the passion, professionalism and elite talent that continues to thrive within the state’s premier netball pathway.
