Sunshine Coast Lightning player number 21, Maddie Hinchliffe has announced her retirement from professional netball.
Having been in the Lightning environment since 2021, Hinchliffe made her Suncorp Super Netball debut for the Queensland Firebirds in 2019 against the GIANTS.
Hinchliffe made her Lightning debut in Round 14 playing for another season before joining Collingwood ahead of the 2023 season.
Returning to the club in season 2024, Hinchliffe would go on to play two more games in Lightning colours.
Looking forward to her new chapter, Hinchliffe reflected on her time at the top level.
“Representing the Hinchliffe name on the national stage for the past 11 years is something I have never taken for granted,” she said.
“Every time I pulled on a dress, it felt like a celebration & recognition of the sacrifices my family made to help me get there.
“The emblem on my chest always represented something bigger than myself.”
Lightning head coach, Belinda Reynolds thanked Hinchliffe for her service to the club and wish her all the best on the next phase of her life.
“Maddie has been an outstanding athlete and representative of our club and community throughout her career,” she said.
“She has been a reliable, fierce competitor who always gave everything for the team.
“Mads has been an exceptional teammate in SSN & SN Reserves and a fantastic leader who has consistently brought out the best in those around her.
“Her commitment, professionalism, and willingness to put the team first have left a lasting impact on our club. All the best for your next chapter Maddie.”
Having played across three clubs, Hinchliffe knows how privileged her time has been and how grateful she was for the people she’d met along the way.
“Playing alongside teammates who became lifelong friends and for a purpose greater than any individual is what I’ll miss the most.
“It really was the little moments along the way that became the big ones.
“To know that this little life of the last 10 years is exactly what 10-year-old Maddie dreamed of, is a privilege that is not lost on me.
“It wasn’t always easy and it may not be a career that many will remember, but it will be one that I am so proud of.
“I hang up my netty dresses with an incredibly full heart and am excited for what’s ahead.”
Hinchliffe will continue to pull on the Thunder dress for the remainder of the 2026 HART Premier Netball League Sapphire Division.
