Both Victorian teams post game on Saturday. Photo: @ollingwoodsn on twitter
The Collingwood Magpies and Melbourne Vixens will relocate to the Sunshine Coast to keep the Super Netball season alive.
Both Melbourne teams were made to relocate from Victoria in preparation for their round five matches due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak in the state.
The Vixens have been based in Queensland since their departure while the Magpies were in Sydney before relocating to the Sunshine Coast after their win over the Vixens.
With John Cain Arena not scheduled to host a match until round 10, the relocation means that the current fixture can remain in place with there being no need to relocate games from the current venues.
The relocation would also mean that no players, coaches or officials would need to isolate or self quarantine.
The league will remain committed to ensuring the both Victorian sides can return home as soon as possible, the relocation wouldn’t be possible without the backing of the Sunshine Coast Council who have been massive supporters of netball.
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Chief Commercial Officer and Acting Executive General Manager of Events David Lee thanked the clubs and the council for their ongoing support.
“Netball Australia and all Suncorp Super Netball clubs are incredibly grateful for the sacrifices the two Melbourne teams have made to ensure the 2021 season can continue,” Lee said.
“I’d also like to thank the Sunshine Coast Council who have made this relocation possible and continue to be big supporters of the competition.
“We are working with the Council to find ways to provide additional benefits to assist the teams, including training facilities and access to locally trained professional personnel such as physiotherapists.”
Sunshine Coast Council Economy Portfolio Councillor Jason O’Pray said the arrangement was a great outcome for the two Victorian teams and Sunshine Coast Council was delighted to continue its strong relationship with Netball Australia and Suncorp Super Netball.
“It will be a great opportunity for the players to really experience the world-class training facilities, sensational natural assets and healthy lifestyle that our Sunshine Coast Lightning team appreciate already,” Cr O’Pray said.
“Hosting elite athletes in training and holding national-level sporting events provides tremendous opportunity to showcase our region and confirms the Sunshine Coast’s reputation as a sporting event and tourism destination.”
Both Melbourne teams are scheduled to have a weeks break before the Magpies take on Sunshine Coast Lightning and Vixens take on the Fever.
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