Watson crowned Fretwell Medallist

Liz Watson has been crowned the inaugural Steph Fretwell Medallist at the Sunshine Coast Lightnings’ annual A Night with Lightning awards night.The Lightning captain amassed 51 votes beating out fellow Diamonds Courtney Bruce (45 votes) and Donnell Wallam (41 votes).

A consistent performer throughout the 2026 season, Watson played a key role through the Lightning’s mid-court, helping to control the tempo of the game.

The Diamonds and Lightning captain proved her leadership credentials, time and time again through the 2026 season.

Sunshine Coast Lightning Head Coach, Belinda Reynolds congratulated Waston for her outstanding season.

“Lizzy’s performance this year has been incredibly reliable for not only her teammates but for us as coaches,” she said.

“An inspiring leader who shows great courage and consistently delivers in big moments, Liz continues to demonstrate why she is one of the most revered names in Netball.

“For her to be the first Steph Fretwell Medallist is a special moment for the club.”

Donnell Wallam was awarded the prestigious Players’ Player Award — voted by the players based on the teammate who consistently lives and breathes the team values.

Lightning Members selected Karin Burger’s fourth quarter intercepts against the Firebirds in Round 2 as their moment of the year, while Ava Black was crowned the Unitywater Community Champion.

Reserves Player of the year went to Jada Delaney for her consistently strong performances across the SN Reserves season, as captain Maddie Hinchliffe was awarded Players’ player.

Off the court, Community Engagement Manager, Emma Bennett was awarded Club Person of the Year for her outstanding contribution to the Club and passion for Sunshine Coast Lightning, going above and beyond to support the players and staff.

Additionally, Lightning volunteer Jamie Holland was awarded Volunteer of the Year due to his professional, enthusiastic and caring approach he takes to all Lightning game days.

Sunshine Coast Lightning 2026 Award Winners:
• Steph Fretwell Medallist: Liz Watson
• Players’ Player Award: Donnell Wallam
• Members’ Moment of the year: Karin Burger (Rd 2 v Firebirds)
• Reserves Player of the year: Jada Delaney
• Reserves Players’ Player Award: Maddie Hinchliffe
• Community Champion: Ava Black
• Club Person of the Year: Emma Bennett
• Volunteer of the Year: Jamie Holland