The Ruby North competition will feature the Far North Flames (Cairns), Townsville City Netball Association (team name to be announced) and Mackay Monarchs, bringing together the top talents from these areas in a fiercely competitive format. It is expected that a Central Queensland team will be announced in the coming weeks.
Moreover, NQ hopes to include invitational teams from Pacific Island nations and other states, enhancing the competition's diversity, standard and reach.
Set to begin in 2025, the Ruby North competition fills the void left by the withdrawal of the Northern Rays from the Sapphire Series in 2023. This departure highlighted a deficiency in pathways for regional athletes, a gap that Ruby North aims to address.
“Ruby division netball is the logical next step for emerging netballers from premier competitions in regional areas. We’ve had incredible support and buy-in from the netball community and we know the talent exists in the regions to make the competition strong and successful,” NQ General Manager - Netball Glenn Dennis said.
“Ruby North has been established to offer a clear and sustainable pathway for emerging athletes in Central and North Queensland and will focus on giving competitive netball opportunities within the region to allow athletes to live and play at home for longer.”
As part of their license agreement, the Flames, Townsville and Mackay will compete in the 16 and Under division at this year’s State Titles in Brisbane alongside Capricorn Claws and existing Sapphire Series clubs, showcasing the region’s best emerging talent ahead of the inaugural Ruby North season. Netball Queensland will directly coordinate a combined team entry for North Queensland in the 18 and Under division.
License holders for the competition were selected based on criteria emphasising long-term sustainability, connection to the netball community, and support of Netball Queensland's Member Organisations.
Ruby North promises to elevate netball in Queensland to new heights, providing a platform for regional athletes to showcase their skills on a competitive stage while fostering growth and development within the sport.
