Tickets will go on sale tomorrow for the clash, proudly supported by Suncorp and Experience Gold Coast, which will be held at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre in Carrara on Friday, March 7.
This marks the fourth edition of the Suncorp Spirit Cup, with previous matchups thrilling sold-out crowds in Mackay, Toowoomba, and Townsville.
Lightning currently hold the cup after a win in Townsville earlier this year, but the Firebirds are determined to reclaim Queensland bragging rights in front of a passionate Gold Coast crowd.
Queensland Firebirds mid-court star and Gold Coast local Hulita Veve emphasized the importance of the Spirit Cup in the team’s preparation for the upcoming season.
“The Suncorp Spirit Cup is a key part of our pre-season as it allows us to test our skills against top opposition in the Lightning,” Veve said.
“I know all of us are excited to showcase what we’ve been working on under new Head Coach Kiri Wills as well as seeing new faces Imogen Allison, Mary Cholhok and Ash Barnett representing the Firebirds on court.
“Playing on the Gold Coast in front of friends, family, and local fans is going to be an incredible experience, and I can’t wait to see the Purple Family out in force.”
This thrilling rivalry match is made possible through the generous support of Suncorp and Experience Gold Coast, underscoring their commitment to promoting elite netball in Queensland and creating opportunities for local fans to experience live, high-level netball.
Sunshine Coast Lightning shooter, Reilley Batcheldor, who grew up on the Gold Coast, said she can’t wait to return to her hometown for the Spirit Cup.
“We always love coming up against the Firebirds, and the Spirit Cup is a great opportunity for us to play some quality netball in preparation for the 2025 season,” she said.
“The Gold Coast was my home until I moved to the Sunshine Coast in 2022, so it’s pretty special to have the opportunity to play there again in the place where it all started for me.
“I’m looking forward to putting on a show for netball fans on the Gold Coast, and can’t wait to meet and connect with our Lightning Members and fans as well.”
Suncorp Chief Executive - Consumer Insurance Lisa Harrison said Suncorp is proud to be partnering with both the Queensland Firebirds and Sunshine Coast Lightning to bring exciting live netball action to the Gold Coast.
"We’re thrilled to support these talented teams and help bring world-class netball to Queensland ahead of the Suncorp Super Netball season," Ms Harrison said.
"The Suncorp Spirit Cup is a testament to our dedication to growing the sport of netball and strengthening our connection with the local community."
Gold Coast Acting Mayor Donna Gates said hosting the Suncorp Spirit Cup was a natural fit for the city.
"We are thrilled to see the Queensland Firebirds and the Sunshine Coast Lightning go head-to-head on the Gold Coast showcasing the best of Queensland netball in this exciting pre-season derby," Cr Gates said.
"As a city that embraces sport and community spirit, these incredible athletes will inspire fans and future stars of the game. This event reinforces the Gold Coast’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class sporting events."
Tickets for the event are expected to sell quickly as fans flock to see their favourite players in action so don’t delay and buy yours from 10am AEST on Thursday, November 28 via Ticketek.
The 2025 Suncorp Spirit Cup will feature the same intensity and format as a regular Suncorp Super Netball game, with four 15-minute quarters and the inclusion of the Suncorp Super Shot, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all netball fans.
