Launceston defender Paige O'Neill will join the NSW Swifts as a Super Netball Training Partner for the 2027 season, becoming one of few Tasmanians to earn a place in a Super Netball club's senior environment.
O'Neill developed her game in Tasmania at the Northern Tasmanian Netball Association and with the Cavaliers in the Tasmanian Netball League. She has represented her state in 15U, 17U and 19U teams and with the Tasmania Wild, before relocating to Sydney to pursue her Super Netball dreams. The 19-year-old made the move to take her netball to the next level while completing her university degree.
She had a standout 2026, helping the NSW Under 19s claim Gold at the National Netball Championships and taking home Grand Final MVP honours.
"I've worked so hard to get to this point, so to be one of the few Tasmanians to ever become a Super Netball Training Partner is something I'm incredibly proud of," O'Neill said.
"Moving to Sydney was a huge step for me, but I knew it was an opportunity to challenge myself and chase the goals I've had since I was little.
"To now have the chance to be part of the Swifts' senior environment and be that little bit closer to playing at the highest level is pretty surreal.
"I'm so grateful for everyone who has supported me along the way, and I'm excited to keep working hard, learning and seeing where this opportunity can take me."
Netball Tasmania High Performance Head Coach Jon Fletcher said the news was a reward for years of commitment from O'Neill.
"We're super excited for Paige and this is a well-deserved reward for her commitment, dedication and hard work over a number of years," Fletcher said.
Fletcher said O'Neill's game and mindset made her a natural fit for the Swifts environment.
"Paige's attacking and athletic style of play is well suited to the Super Netball League environment. We're confident her team first mindset will make a big impression and she will be a valuable inclusion in the Swifts program.
"Having a second Super Netball training partner from Tasmania is fantastic encouragement for our aspiring players who are looking to take the next step and reach the highest level."
Netball Tasmania CEO Penny Shearer said O'Neill's achievement showed what was possible for young Tasmanian athletes.
"Paige's achievement is a proud moment for Tasmanian netball, and it sends a powerful message to every young athlete in the state.
Seeing one of our own like Paige take this next step shows our players that the pathway is real and that you can pursue the highest level of the sport without losing your connection to home. We hope girls watching from Launceston to Hobart see her story and believe they can do it too.
Paige is a wonderful role model, and we are incredibly proud of her and will be cheering her on every step of the way," Shearer said.
