Liz Watson has been crowned the inaugural Steph Fretwell Medallist at the Sunshine Coast Lightning’s annual awards night.
The Lightning captain amassed 51 votes, beating out fellow Diamonds Courtney Bruce (45 votes) and Donnell Wallam (41 votes), at A Night with Lightning.
A consistent performer throughout the 2026 season, Liz 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 Watson for her outstanding season.
“Lizzy’s performance this year has been incredibly reliable for not only her teammates but for us as coaches,” she says.
“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.”
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.
Ava Black was crowned the Unitywater Community Champion.
Reserves Player of the Year went to Jada Delaney for her consistently strong performances across the Super Netball Reserves season, and captain Maddie Hinchliffe was awarded Players’ Player.
Emma Bennett was awarded Club Person of the Year and Jamie Holland was awarded Volunteer of the Year.
