ICare Group Australia Ipswich Jets head coach Megan Lynch couldn’t have picked a worse time to suffer a bout of laryngitis, yet it hasn’t hindered her team’s ability to qualify for the HART Premier Netball League Sapphire major semi-final.
After the Jets finished fifth in her first year at the helm in 2025, Lynch has guided her group of strategically selected players into a second-place finish on the ladder to set up a tantalising clash with minor premiers the Kedron-Wavell Cougars.
“We didn’t have the depth last year, so we made a few changes in the off-season,” Lynch said.
“It was a conscious mix of younger and older, experienced and inexperienced, and they’ve blended really well. It’s been my favourite season of coaching so far.”
In her sixth year as a Sapphire coach, it’s also Lynch’s first top-division finals campaign.
“I’m excited for the girls and the staff because we work hard together,” she said.
“It’s about the right people in the right positions. We’ve got a full complement of people ready to go, as well as those coming through.”
This includes 17-year-old defender Ruby Stanford, who has shone for the Jets in her debut Sapphire season.
“I’m really proud of Ruby, as she’s grown from strength to strength and is a shining light,” Lynch said.
“I’m so excited for what comes in her future. She’s had an amazing year – Queensland 17 and Under captain, National Netball Championships Most Valuable Player and being named in the National 17 and Under Squad.
"Just wait until she gets where she wants to be.”
Stanford’s efforts helped push the Jets across the line in Sunday night’s two-point win over the Gold Coast Titans to wrap up the regular season.
That game was the first time Lynch had the fortune of running a fully fit squad, with all 11 top-line players available.
“It’s been good, though, as I’ve used everyone across the season,” she said.
“We don’t have a bench. I’ve changed it every time and I’m confident I can put anyone on.”
The Jets and Cougars have faced off twice this season, taking a win apiece, yet there’s a greater prize on the line this Sunday at Nissan Arena, with the victor securing a place in the 2026 Sapphire HPNL grand final.
“We were really happy with so much of that game that we lost to them, and can build and polish on that,” Lynch said.
“It could be anyone’s this weekend. We respect them, but that doesn’t mean they’re not beatable.”
The Sapphire Series’ 4pm major semi-final will be followed by the Gold Coast Titans taking on BOND University Bull Sharks in a 6pm elimination semi-final.
Netball Queensland’s NetballQ TV, the home of community netball in Queensland, is delivering live and free coverage of the state’s most exciting grassroots and pathways competitions, including the HART Premier Netball League Sapphire and Ruby Series. Click here to access NetballQ TV as the HPNL heads into finals this weekend!
