More than 10,000 passionate netball fans will pour into Ken Rosewall Arena on Sunday 22 June, to witness one of the most anticipated matchups of the Suncorp Super Netball season — the second NSW Derby of the year between the NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball.
Fast becoming one of the standout events on the NSW sports calendar, the Round 12 clash has officially sold out, with all tickets snapped up weeks in advance. It’s yet another sign of the incredible momentum behind Australia’s No.1 female sports league, and the undeniable pulling power of elite women’s netball in NSW.
This Derby comes as netball continues to confirm its place as the leading female sport, following a record-breaking 2024 Suncorp Super Netball season that saw a 25% surge in national attendance. In 2025, Round 1 alone attracted a record 22,369 fans nationally, an 8% increase on the 2024 Round 1 figure, which had set the previous benchmark just a year earlier.
The NSW Derby has quickly grown into a marquee moment for women’s sport, and the early sellout is a powerful reflection of the league’s growing influence. From young aspiring athletes in the crowd to household names on court, this fixture shines a spotlight on the strength and reach of netball in New South Wales.
“The Sydney Derby is a true celebration of women’s sport and the strength of netball in New South Wales,” said Tracey Scott, CEO of Netball NSW.
“To see Ken Rosewall Arena sold out more than a week in advance is a testament to the passion of our fans and the incredible athletes who inspire them. It’s moments like this that show just how powerful our game is and continues to be."
Distinguished parliamentarians and VIPs will be in attendance, adding a touch of prestige to the occasion as they join thousands of fans in celebrating what’s fast becoming a must-see event in the sporting calendar. Their presence highlights the significance of the match not only within the netball community but also at a broader cultural and national level.
16 of the 18 previous NSW Derby clashes between the Swifts and GIANTS have been decided by single figures or ended in a draw, including three thrilling one-goal finishes.
Both teams come into the Derby with contrasting recent form. The GIANTS have claimed back-to-back wins and are gaining momentum heading into the business end of the season. The Swifts, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back after two consecutive losses but still sit on top of the Super Netball ladder thanks to their strong start to the year.
As the fans roll into Ken Rosewall Arena on Sunday afternoon, one thing is certain — netball in NSW is on the rise, and the Derby is its main event.
