QLD SUNS 2026 Athlete Nominations

Are you ready to rise through the ranks of men’s and mixed netball in Queensland? Join the QLD SUNS as we build toward our 2026 Nationals campaign!

All eligible athletes - including those currently in underage divisions - are strongly encouraged to trial for Open divisions. This is a valuable opportunity to test yourself at the next level and be part of a high-performance program driven by development, excellence, and Queensland pride.

Nominations close midnight, 31st August 2025.

Trial Calendar Overview

NB: All dates subject to venue confirmation.

Final team announcements will be made at the end of the pre-season campaign (prior to the December break).

Training Expectations

2025 Pre-Season

Athletes selected in the QLD SUNS State Squads will be expected to attend one 2 hour training session per week, which will include a combination of skills development and conditioning. This pre-season phase is designed to build foundational fitness, reinforce technical standards, and prepare athletes for the full training load in 2026.

Regional athletes:

Two compulsory weekends: Week 4 (2 Nov), Week 10 (14 Dec).

2026 Season

From the commencement of 2026, the training commitment will increase to approximately 5 hours of weekly contact time, made up of:

Two (2) on-court sessions per week, focusing on high-performance skills, gameplay, and tactical development.
One (1) gym/strength & conditioning session per week to support physical preparation and injury prevention.

NB: Regional athletes will be required to attend 3 compulsory regional weekends which will be schedule (dates to be confirmed with Head Coach of each team)

Flexibility

Queensland Suns recognises that individual circumstances may vary. In exceptional cases, modifications may be considered through direct consultation with the Head Coach, ensuring athlete wellbeing and team standards are both supported.

About Trials

The 2025 QLD SUNS trial structure is designed to support statewide talent identification, provide clear and fair pathways for athletes, and ensure the best possible squad selections across all teams.

Underage Trials
17U & 20U

Regional Trials will be held in North Queensland (Townsville) and South East Queensland (Nissan Arena) to increase accessibility and broaden talent identification opportunities.
Trials will include a camp-style format with specialist skill sessions delivered by invited coaches.
Final underage trials will be held on 6 and 7 September in SEQ to finalise squad selections.

Open Division Trials

Trials will be conducted in two key stages across September:

Early September: Initial trials for all Open Division teams. All eligible athletes are encouraged to attend.
Mid–Late September: Final squad selection weekend held after the conclusion of HPNL (M-League).
Selected male athletes for the Open Divisions will enter a 10-week pre-season training program. Final team selection will occur during this period based on performance, commitment, and readiness.

Open Division Trials - Females

Part A – Male Athlete Selection

All male athletes will trial together during the Open Division trials and subsequent squad training.

Part B – Female Athlete Selection via Mixed League

Open Mixed trials for female athletes will occur during the first four weeks of the Mixed League competition (Sep–Oct).
Female athletes will be assessed through their Mixed League performances.

Additional Mixed League Observations – Male Athletes

While male athletes cannot directly nominate for state selection through Mixed League, selectors reserve the right to observe performances and invite individuals to the Open Division squad training if warranted.

Final Trial & Squad Considerations

A final trial involving all identified athletes for Open Mixed will be held in early October.

All athletes, regardless of their preferred division, may be considered for any team at the discretion of the selection panel, ensuring selection decisions support both athlete development and the strategic goals of the QLD SUNS program.

Please note: Qld Suns will not be sending a Reserve Mixed division to the 2026 AMMNA National Championships. All Mixed team selections will be for the Open Mixed division only.

Open Divisions include Open Mens, Open A Mens, Open Mixed, 23 & U

Under Aged division are 20 & U, 17 & U

Key Reminders

Athlete preferences will be considered, but selection decisions may place individuals into teams where their impact and potential are strongest.
The program prioritises athlete development, team success, and the long-term goals of QLD SUNS.
All teams will be finalised by 14 December 2025

What We're Looking For

✓ A team-first mindset

✓ Skill, attitude, and court craft

✓ Commitment to a high-performance team culture

What Happens Next

Submit your nomination via the EOI form when it opens
Attend relevant trials – we’ll contact you with details
Squad selections confirmed in September
Pre-season training begins October
Final team announcements in December

admin@qldsuns.com.au

The Queensland Suns

QLD SUNS 2026 Athlete Nominations

Trial Calendar Overview