2026 squad announced for national Indigenous netball side Black Swans

Jarred Cross Published November 7, 2025 at 3.30pm (AWST)

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12 returning players and five fresh names have been selected for the side. Pictured: Olivia Clarke at the 2025 Pacific Series. (Image: Joseph Guenzler)

The squad for Australia's First Nations national netball team has been announced for 2026.

Following the debut of the Black Swans at 2024's Pacific Series, finishing on top of the standings after round-robin matches as an invitational outfits, the side has continued to assemble for tournaments against some of the country's best talent.

The 17-player squad features former Super Netball defender Gabby Coffey, who shifted to the UK's Super Netball League in 2025, and recent World Youth Cup winner Scarlett Jauncey alongside a list of Super Netball Reserves and elite pathways names, with five fresh faces to the squad.

Star performances at August's state and territory representative First Nations Tournament, state-level and national pathways programs also factored into selections.

*Brianna Martyn (left) returns to the squad, with Mia Evans (middle) earning a first time selection after the pair's strong showings at August's First Nations Netball Tournament. (Image: Jarred Cross)*

The long-term goal is to see more Indigenous players run out for the national side.

Though more to the Black Swans than just exposure and opportunity at the elite level, Netball Australia First Nations Pathways Manager and former Super Netball premiership winner Beryl Friday said.

"While the purpose of this program is to have First Nations athletes selected into an Australian Diamonds team, we've really expanded our approach to empower them as First Nations female leaders and role models," Friday said.

"The Black Swans program provides the athletes with holistic opportunities to develop their technical and tactical skills while also building leadership, cultural pride, and the capacity to be role models in their communities."

*Ewamian defender Brook Lacey (left, pictured at the 2025 Pacific Series) returns for her third year in the Black Swans squad. (Image: Joseph Guenzler)*

Giants assistant coach Jen Wright has been appointed coach for next year, with Ali Tucker-Munro choosing to step away from the position held since the side's debut.

Squad members will take part in guided performance plans from all corners of the country through the season, and will also have opportunities within home state programs.

Nunukul and Kanolu midcourter Aaliyah Frescon-Sheppard is gearing up for her first campaign in the squad.

"I am incredibly grateful to be selected for the Black Swans squad," she said.

"It means so much to represent my mob, my family, and my culture. I can't wait to get out there and get to work."

Experienced Black Swans names like Lily Cubby, Jayden Molo, Tierrah Miller, Brook Lacey Aaleya Turner and Brianna Martyn return, among others.

Marytn took home the Marica Ella Duncan Medal as player of the tournament at this year's First Nations Tournament on Bunurong Country.

"I am excited and honoured to join the Australian Black Swans squad," she said.

"After being sidelined with an ACL injury and working extremely hard to get back on court, I am eager to be a part of this amazing team."

First Nations Black Swans Squad for 2026

2026 First Nations Black Swans

Sophie Brewer - Wiradjuri

Olivia Clarke - Kamilaroi

Gabby Coffey - Wiradjuri