Sandholt, who became Firebird No.117 after debuting in last year’s final round epic against the NSW Swifts at Nissan Arena, has earned her elevation on the back of an impressive pre-season which has included significant game time in pre-season trial matches.
Born in Iceland, Sandholt is a Gold Coast junior who came through the Queensland pathways, representing the state at 17U and 19U level before going on to be a key part of the Queensland Firebirds Futures in the Super Netball Reserves.
In last year’s competition the 21-year-old was a standout for the Futures, scoring 235 goals across eight matches.
She was also a part of the Australian 21 and Under Squad in 2025, taking part in a three-day tour of Tonga alongside other rising Australian talent in late October.
Sandholt said last year’s SSN debut, in a clash with the Swifts which went into extra-time before the Firebirds were unable to end their season with a win, had provided inspiration for Sandholt heading into her second pre-season campaign as a Firebirds training partner.
“It definitely put a fire in the belly,” Sandholt said.
“It was a really cool opportunity but it was also a very heartbreaking opportunity in many ways because of how the game went. There was definitely a bit of me in there going ‘I want to do this’.
“The opportunity to be full time with the team is just incredibly exciting. It’s what every training partner is really pushing for and really fighting for and I’m really happy that my hard work is paying off.”
Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills said Sandholt’s work and performances across the pre-season had led to the decision to elevate her to the Eleventh Player spot.
“Elsa has chalked up strong performances whenever she has had an opportunity,” Wills said.
“She has gone very well against top international goalkeepers.
“We’re proud to have a Queensland pathways talent receive this opportunity and look forward to Elsa continuing to make the most of opportunities that come her way across our 2026 season.”
Sandholt joins the Firebirds’ existing contracted 10 for 2026:
Imogen Allison
Ruby Bakewell-Doran
Mary Cholhok
Lara Dunkley
Macy Gardner
Maddy Gordon
Kelly Jackson
Emily Moore
Te Paea Selby-Rickit
Isabelle Shearer
Elsa Sif Sandholt
THE WORLD'S BEST NETBALL LEAGUE RETURNS THIS WEEKEND! Don't miss a minute of the action as the Queensland Firebirds begin their campaign this Sunday at Nissan Arena from 1pm against defending premiers Melbourne Vixens. Get your tickets now from Ticketek and be there for every heart-stopping moment!
