While the Capricorn Claws and North Queensland United are chasing a first Ruby North crown, all players will be hoping to impress to secure a spot on the Merit Team that is set to be named at Sunday's presentations.
The concept means standout performers from across the season will be selected to play the Queensland Under-23 First Nations squad at the HART Premier Netball League Grand Final Day at Nissan Arena in Brisbane on Sunday 13 September.
It is a genuine pathway moment for regional talent, and one that gives every athlete taking the court this weekend something extra to play for, regardless of where their team sits on the standings.
Far North Flames captain Kate Walker believes the initiative is exactly what the competition needs to showcase just how good the netball being played in the north really is.
"Individuals don't really understand how high level the Ruby North series is," Walker said.
"Even my dad was amazed the first time he watched - he didn't realise how physical and how good the netball actually was.
"It's a very good opportunity to show what's being played up here."
Walker also pointed to the tangible benefits a higher profile can bring, noting several players from last year's competition have since gone on to compete in the HPNL Sapphire and Ruby divisions in south-east Queensland.
The Merit Team will be chosen by a panel featuring Queensland Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills, Firebirds Futures Academy Coach Tracey Bruce and Netball Queensland's Head of Talent and Development Roselee Jencke.
The coach of the highest-placed Ruby North club at the conclusion of the season will be offered the role of Merit Team Coach, with the opportunity passed down the ladder should that coach be unavailable.
Ruby North umpires will also have the chance to earn selection to officiate the showcase match, with the full squad to be announced at Sunday's presentations following the final round of matches.
On court, the title race could not be tighter, with the Claws and United locked together atop the ladder ahead of a likely do-or-die clash between the two on Sunday morning.
Walker, however, is eager for her Flames to have their say before then.
After a flawless 3-0 weekend in Rockhampton but a tougher 1-2 return in Townsville, the Flames have gone back to basics heading into their home round.
"That's what we want to do - we want to go out and cause a little bit of an upset," Walker said of Saturday's matches against the two ladder leaders, before setting her sights on a perfect send-off.
"We're so lucky to have the last home round as our final cluster weekend - to get to finish it all out in front of friends and family is really special."
The fourth round of Ruby North begins on Saturday at Redlynch State College in Cairns. 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.
