The second round of Super Netball set a new regular-season attendance record and showcased several remarkable player performances and intensely close matches.
More than 13,400 spectators attended a double-header event at the Sydney SuperDome, featuring the NSW Swifts and Giants, setting a new competition attendance record.
Round Two Match Highlights
The round was filled with thrilling contests and significant wins:
- The Adelaide Thunderbirds maintained their top ladder position with a dominant 66-43 victory over the West Coast Fever.
- The Melbourne Vixens also extended their undefeated streak, defeating the Giants 68-52, a match that marked the notable return of Emily Mannix to the court.
- The Swifts overcame a seven-goal deficit against the Melbourne Mavericks to secure a narrow 70-69 win, largely spearheaded by Helen Housby's exceptional play.
- Donnell Wallam contributed a game-winning goal for the Sunshine Coast Lightning, securing a narrow 63-62 victory against her former team, the Queensland Firebirds, in a dramatic finish.
Emily Mannix Returns After Daughter's Medical Emergency
Melbourne Vixens goal keeper Emily Mannix made a much-anticipated return to play after taking a season off. Her absence was due to a severe medical emergency involving her daughter, Mabel.
Mabel experienced complications at birth in January 2025, including the umbilical cord around her neck, which led to moderate HIE (hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy), or oxygen loss to the brain.
Mabel underwent a crucial 72-hour cooling process to minimize potential brain damage, with subsequent MRI results thankfully showing no lasting damage.
Mannix stated that the profound experience significantly impacted her mental readiness to play, leading to her decision to miss the 2025 season. During her time off, the Vixens went on to win the grand final.
Her emotional return in round two, coming off the bench, was impactful, as she recorded four gains, one intercept, six deflections, and two rebounds. Mannix is also part of a supportive WhatsApp group for first-time Super Netball mothers, highlighting the unique challenges faced by athlete parents.
Donnell Wallam's Impact Against Former Team
Donnell Wallam, who was not re-signed by the Firebirds after the 2024 season and had played in New Zealand in 2025, made a significant return to Super Netball with the Sunshine Coast Lightning.
In a dramatic match against her former team, the Queensland Firebirds, Wallam scored a clutch super shot with just 30 seconds remaining, securing a narrow 63-62 victory for the Lightning.
She was deservedly recognized as Player of the Match for her pivotal performance against her old club.
Helen Housby's Resurgence
Helen Housby of the NSW Swifts demonstrated significantly improved form in Round 2. She notably doubled her eight-goal tally from Round 1 and earned a Player of the Match award.
Her outstanding performance was central to the Swifts' thrilling 70-69 comeback win against the Melbourne Mavericks. Housby commented on managing the intense pressure inherent in professional athletics, stating she fully embraces the responsibility that comes with it.