Jane Watson departs Tactix for Australia
- Dave Worsley
- Aug 17
- 2 min read
Former Silver Fern and current ANZ Premiership standout, Jane Watson, has signed with the Giants netball club in Sydney for the 2026 Suncorp Super Netball season.
Watson joins the Giants fresh off a championship-winning campaign with the Tactix, where she played a pivotal role in securing the 2025 premiership title.
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A cornerstone of New Zealand netball for over a decade, Watson brings a commanding presence, elite defensive skillset, and calm leadership under pressure.
The release from the Giants stated that standing at 181cm, Watson dominates the defensive end with a combination of relentless intensity and natural leadership.
Equipped with a sharp vertical leap, impressive reach, explosive acceleration, and a keen eye for the intercept, she is a dynamic and highly disruptive force on court—capable of turning defence into attack in an instant.
Her move to the GIANTS marks Watson’s first appearance in Australia’s Super Netball competition - a significant cross-Tasman transfer and a major coup for the club as it strengthens its roster for a title push in 2026.
Giants Netball Head Coach Nerida Stewart said Watson’s signing is a significant addition to the squad.
“Jane is such a respected figure in the game. She brings a wealth of experience, a calm presence, and a real competitive edge that will really complement our group,” Stewart said.
“Her experience and calmness will be a great asset for our group, especially in high-pressure moments. She’s the kind of player who leads by example both on and off the court.
“We’re excited about the energy and professionalism she will bring to the team culture and how she will contribute to our defensive end.”
The experienced defende couldn't wait to get involved in Super Netball
"I’m incredibly excited to be joining the GIANTS for the 2026 season," said Watson.
"This marks a new chapter in my career, and it’s going to be a great opportunity to challenge myself both on and off the court. Change often brings growth, and I’m really looking forward to testing myself in a new setting, working with different coaches and teammates, and continuing to evolve as a player and a person.
"I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s goals and bringing my experience into a fresh environment."
Watson joins the raft of New Zealand players leaving for Austraiia with former Silver Fern Te Paea Selby-Rickit is joining the Queensland Firebirds along with current Silver Ferns Kelly Jackson and Maddy Gordon confirmed they will be playing in the Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) competition next year.
The trio will be playing under New Zealand coach Kiri Wills at the Firebirds, who are taking advantage of Netball New Zealand's recent relaxing of eligibility rules.
Also departing New Zealand is Kate Heffernan from the Steel to the Thunderbirds in Adelaide.
