Sports Entertainment Group Takes Over Giants Super Netball Licence From October 1

Sports Entertainment Group has completed its acquisition of the Giants Super Netball licence from Netball NSW, with ownership transferring on October 1, 2026. SEG, headed by Craig Hutchison, now operates two Super Netball teams after establishing the Melbourne Mavericks in 2024. The deal marks the first time a single private operator owns multiple Super Netball franchises and ends the last remaining link between AFL and the elite netball competition.

Why the Giants licence changed hands

The Giants netball programme has struggled for resources despite a decade as a cornerstone of elite netball in New South Wales. The GWS Giants AFL club recognised the need to inject more funding into the team and sought a buyer. Netball NSW ceded control of the licence after the Mounties Group deal fell through. Players and staff were briefed on the impending ownership change on Monday, with final details flagged as a formality.

SEG’s growing netball footprint

SEG entered netball three years ago by establishing the Melbourne Mavericks in 2024, following Collingwood’s controversial exit from the sport in 2023. Richard Simkiss, CEO of SEN Teams, said the acquisition reflects SEG’s belief in netball’s future. The company also owns multiple basketball franchises under the SEN Teams banner. This is the first time two Super Netball teams have been owned by the same private operator rather than a state association.

End of football codes in Super Netball

The Giants takeover marks the final break between AFL and Super Netball. Collingwood surrendered its licence in 2023 after widespread criticism of its handling of the netball programme. The NRL’s Melbourne Storm Group established the Sunshine Coast Lightning in partnership with the University of the Sunshine Coast and claimed two premierships. Netball NSW will continue to own and operate the NSW Swifts, maintaining state association involvement in the league.

What happens to the Giants brand

The team will remain based in Sydney, but SEG has not yet announced the new club identity, brand, or long-term vision. The Giants have worn AFL club orange and charcoal colours since the expansion netball club’s inception. SEG plans to focus on growing participation, pathways, and fan engagement in Western Sydney and New South Wales.

Final Thoughts

SEG’s takeover consolidates private ownership in Super Netball while ending football codes’ involvement. The shift reflects growing investment in women’s netball as a standalone sport with commercial potential beyond traditional AFL and NRL structures.

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