Inaugural Sunshine Coast Lightning goaler, Cara Koenen and the club have made the decision that she will pursue other opportunities in season 2027.
Lightning player #6, Koenen is a foundation player for the club, as well as being a member of the 2017 and 2018 premierships.
Landing on the Sunshine Coast as a 20-year-old from Magnetic Island, Koenen has played 122 Super Netball games for the Lightning becoming one of the premier goaler’s in world netball.
Winning Player of the Year in 2025 alongside Steph Fretwell, Koenen was also awarded Players’ Player in 2021 and the Members’ Player Award in 2020 & 2021, recognising both her high performance and strong connection with supporters.
In 2019, Cara was also honoured with the Community Champion Award for her active role modelling and engagement through regional netball clinics and local community programs adding to a glittering resume which includes over 50 test caps for the Australian Diamonds.
Reflecting on her time with the Lightning, Koenen said she will be forever grateful not only to the club for giving her, her start but to the whole Sunshine Coast community.
“I am incredibly grateful for my time at Sunshine Coast Lightning.
“To the team, fans, members and the Sunshine Coast community who have always shown up with unwavering support (regardless of wins or losses), I cannot thank you enough.
“I arrived on the coast with so much to learn – simply wanting to make the most of whatever opportunity came my way.
“Ten seasons in yellow and more than 100 games later, I feel incredibly lucky to have made memories I’ll cherish forever with some truly inspiring people.
“It’s been an amazing ride; words can’t describe how thankful I am for those who have been in my corner along the way.”
Lightning Chief Executive, Justin Pascoe thanked Koenen for everything she had done for the club and the Sunshine Coast community.
“For the past ten seasons, Cara has proudly worn the Sunshine Coast Lightning dress with enormous passion, humility and professionalism,” he said.
“To play more than 100 games for one club, represent Australia, win premierships and become one of the most respected goalers in world netball is an extraordinary achievement.
“We are incredibly honoured that Cara chose to call the Sunshine Coast Lightning home for the past decade.
“She has helped shape the identity and culture of this club from its earliest years and has inspired countless young athletes across our region to dream big and believe they too can achieve great things.
“She leaves having made an extraordinary contribution to the Sunshine Coast Lightning, and she will forever be remembered as one of the greats of our club.
“On behalf of everyone associated with the Sunshine Coast Lightning—our staff, coaches, players, members, partners and fans—thank you, Cara. It has been an absolute privilege to share this journey with you.”
Lightning head coach, Belinda Reynolds said Koenen has been an inspiration to the club throughout her decorated time on the Sunshine Coast.
“Cara has been an inspirational team member for this club since its inception,” she said.
“During my time at Lightning, it’s been a privilege to watch Cara grow, both as a player and as a person.
“It’s been great to see her flourish and continue to evolve her game, her contribution to this club will always be valued.
“We will miss our number 6, but we’re incredibly grateful for everything she has given this club and wish her all the very best for the next chapter.”
