Sunshine Coast Lightning has been advised by Suncorp Super Netball that the league will be entering a hub in South Australia ahead of Round 11.
While disappointed that the Club will no longer be able to play in front of our loyal USC Stadium crowd this season, we understand and support the league’s decision to centralise the competition.
Lightning and Queensland Firebirds are expected to fly into Adelaide tomorrow, following the 4 Melbourne based clubs who are migrating across on Thursday evening.
The Club is cooperating with the league to make the transition as seamless as possible, while we also await the amended fixture for Round 11 and beyond, as they consider all options including the potential for a condensed season.
Lightning CEO Danielle Smith said the hub format was unfortunately inevitable given the current COVID-19 landscape, however, that doesn’t take away from the sacrifices that all people across the League are making.
“I have nothing but gratitude for our athletes, coaches and staff, as well as League staff and officials, who will again relocate interstate to ensure the competition can go on safely and am overwhelmingly proud of their professionalism and willingness to get on with the task ahead,” Smith said.
“They each are making personal sacrifices in regard to family, employment and their general livelihoods for their club and our competition.
“We are a proud Club and I have complete confidence that our Lightning team will leave everything out on court and will continue to make our Members and Lightning community proud.
“I’d also like to thank the League, opposing clubs and assisting government bodies for the extensive work that has happened behind the scenes to make this come to fruition.”
The League is yet to make an announcement on the remaining fixtures, which will include considering all options including a condensed season.
SSN has been in constant contact with the Australian and state government departments to ensure the teams can travel safely, in line with the state’s health requirements.
All reserved seat Members and Round 11 ticket holders will also be communicated with directly in the coming days.
