Joining the Far North Flames, Townsville and Mackay Monarchs, the Claws will represent the Central Queensland region, building on their rich history in netball development and competition in the region.
The Claws have been a cornerstone of netball in Central Queensland, participating in the State Titles and operating successful academy development programs for many years.
Their presence in the Ruby North competition is backed by the well-established Regional Firebirds Futures Academy led by Head Coach Sam Dippel.
NQ General Manager Netball Glenn Dennis said the addition of the Claws made sense for the competition.
“Capricorn Claws have been an enduring presence in Central Queensland, and they were the obvious choice to host the team in the new Ruby North competition,” Dennis said.
“We’ve been really impressed by the commitment and capability shown by the Capricorn Claws Ruby North steering committee and commend them for the work that has been done to prepare their submission for the license.”
Announced in May, the Ruby North competition is a reinvigorated initiative aimed at providing elite netball opportunities for the finest athletes in the state’s central and northern regions.
Set to begin in 2025, Ruby North fills the void left by the withdrawal of the Northern Rays from the Sapphire Series in 2023.
The four core teams tied to the competition are now set, and work will commence shortly on scheduling and competition format, as well as opportunities for match play with other interested groups.
In addition to the four teams announced for next year’s competition, NQ hopes to include invitational teams from Pacific Island nations and other states, enhancing the competition's diversity, standard, and reach.
