Jemma Carey, who played a pivotal role as assistant coach under Bec Hagenbach during last year's title-winning campaign, has been promoted to Head Coach for the 2026 season, bringing more than a decade of high-level coaching experience to the defending champions' quest to repeat.
Rather than implementing wholesale changes, Carey is taking a measured approach to her new leadership role, focusing on evolution rather than revolution.
"Little subtle tweaks," Carey explained when asked about her coaching philosophy. "Obviously the responsibility of decision making will sit with me and align with my coaching style. Last year it was wonderful to support Bec providing input into those decisions and we achieved success with that model. In 2026, we've got wonderful support one again from our assistant coach and management."
The 2026 Monarchs present an intriguing blend of championship experience and emerging regional talent. While several key players return to provide what Carey describes as "pillars of strength," the roster features numerous fresh faces experiencing this level of competition for the first time.
"We've got a lot of emerging players coming through this year – this is their first opportunity to experience this level of pathways," she said.
The renewed pathway has even drawn back experienced players in their mid-20s who had stepped away from representative netball when the former QSNL ceased operations.
The Monarchs' title defence comes during a genuine renaissance for regional netball. The recent Country Carnival, hosted in Mackay, saw local teams return home with medals, further evidence of the depth of talent that Ruby North has helped cultivate across north Queensland.
The defending champions will launch their campaign on home court at Mackay Multi-Sport Stadium, something Carey sees as far more than a tactical advantage.
"The region is absolutely full of avid netball lovers," she said. "Having Ruby North here gives our community the chance to see what the competition is about and for our players to perform in front of family and friends."
The opening round of Ruby North begins on Friday at Mackay Multi-Sport Stadium. A full list of fixtures is available here.
Don't miss any of the action. Catch every match from of Ruby North streamed LIVE AND FREE on netballqtv.com.au.
