Sport
2 November, 2025
Rising star caps off top year
RISING netball star Darna Ziegler has capped off an outstanding season, representing Far North Queensland at both state and international levels.
Ms Ziegler has been part of the Marlin Coast Netball Academy, which, as president Heather McLaren explains, provides young players across the region with opportunities to develop their skills both on and off the court, through playing, coaching and umpiring pathways.
Ms Ziegler, who has been with the academy for six years, captained her team at the State Age Championships in Campbelltown, New South Wales, where they finished fourth overall.
She also represented the academy in Singapore at the International World Cup last year, where her team won.
“This year was my last year with Marlin Coast, but I’ve been selected for the future Firebirds Academy team, which runs from November into next year,” Ms Ziegler said.
“Coaching the younger Marlin Coast girls has also helped improve my own game,” she said.
Her other achievements this year include playing for NQ Ortho Radars (Cairns Netball Association), winning the grand final 38-27 and earning player of the match, as well as being selected for QISSN (Queensland Independent Secondary School Netball Carnival) with her school, St Mary’s Catholic College, where she received the rising star award in Bundaberg. She also represented NQ Under-18s at the state titles at Nissan Arena in September.
Ms Ziegler credited Heather McLaren, Shannon Dempsey and Leanne Turbitt for their dedication.
She highlighted the value of regular clinics with former Australian players Vicki Wilson and Amanda Stagg, which have helped her and other academy players improve their skills.
Ms Ziegler also thanked her mother Kim McCormack for everything she has done for her.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without her unwavering support and passion for netball,” she said.
The Marlin Coast Netball Academy attracts players from across North Queensland, including Tully, Innisfail, Mareeba, Atherton, Ravenshoe and Cape York.
Mrs McLaren said the academy provided a pathway for athletes from around 11 or 12 years old up to 17, with training, strength and conditioning, and opportunities to compete in state, national and international competitions.
The academy also hosts festivals and specialist sessions for younger players, giving them a chance to experience competitive netball and learn from elite coaches.
Mrs McLaren said the program was about more than just on-court performance, helping players to develop confidence, discipline and self-management, skills that can support them both in sport and in life.
