Pulse’s game against the Kedron-Wavell Cougars on Sunday afternoon is more than a season-opener for both clubs, it’s the launch of a legacy according to Kadlecek.
“It’s really special to be a leader of a club in its inaugural year,” Kadlecek said.
“To help guide the Pulse is an honour, and I’m humbled to work with and support the girls to hopefully a trophy at the end.”
Kadlecek, 26, is not only one of the older players selected to represent the Moreton Bay region, but also one of the more experienced having been a member of the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Pepes since 2022 including captaining the Pepes at this year’s PacificAus Sports Netball Series.
Her rise to national duties, combined with a determination to play in Queensland’s top netball league, has required relocating away from family in Cairns.
“I was reluctant to make the move as Brisbane is a lot bigger than Cairns, but I do live in North Brisbane so it’s a great area and I have a lot of friends here,” Kadlecek said.
It’s not Kadlecek’s first foray into the Sapphire division, having already played for the Northern Mendi Rays and Sunshine Coast Thunder.
But after a year off to focus solely on Pepes’ responsibilities, the mid-courter has accepted her place at the new Pulse franchise with an appreciation of what she can achieve in giving back to the game she’s played and loved for more than 16 years.
“The Pulse is very big on promoting and playing to our strengths, to bring that different type of flair,” Kadlecek said.
“We have structures but again it’s up to us as individuals to bring our own strengths.”
As for advice for the next generation, particularly those playing in Queensland’s regional areas, Kadlecek said the risks were worth it.
“I’ve made a big move down south and it’s paying off,” she said.
“I wish I’d taken this move when I was younger. Being a regional athlete, you need to take those risks and if you get knocked down you just have to come back bigger, better and stronger. There are so many talented athletes up north, and the pathways are growing in strength.”
Pulse is fielding both a Sapphire and Ruby team, expanding the premier division to eight teams while the Ruby division has grown to 10 teams.
Round 1 2025 HPNL Sapphire division (all games on Sunday, June 8):
Jets v Titans, 4pm Nissan Arena Showcourt
Cougars v Pulse, 4pm Nissan Arena Court 1
Tigers v Bull Sharks, 4pm Nissan Arena Court 3
Wildcats v Thunder, 6pm Nissan Arena Showcourt
NetballQ TV is streaming HART Premier Netball League Ruby series matches in 2025, allowing netball fans across the state to watch Queensland’s brightest up-and-coming talent.
Click here to access NetballQ TV.
