Four Victorian athletes played a key role as the Australian Diamonds finished their Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games campaign with a bronze medal.
The Diamonds responded strongly after a heartbreaking semi-final loss to Jamaica, producing a composed performance in the bronze medal match to finish the tournament with six wins from seven matches and another Commonwealth Games medal.
Victorian quartet Kate Moloney, Jo Weston, Matilda Garrett and captain Liz Watson each made valuable contributions throughout the campaign, helping Australia navigate a demanding tournament against the world's best.
Captain Liz Watson once again led from the front, directing Australia's attacking end with her trademark composure and creativity through the midcourt. Following the semi-final defeat, Watson reinforced the team's united approach before leading the Diamonds into the bronze medal decider, where Australia produced a commanding display against England.
Alongside Watson, Kate Moloney was instrumental in Australia's campaign, providing relentless defensive pressure, speed through transition and leadership across the centre court. After the disappointment of the semi-final, Moloney emphasised the importance of the group regrouping quickly, with the Diamonds responding emphatically to secure bronze.
In defence, Jo Weston once again showcased why she remains one of Australia's most dependable defenders. Weston applied constant pressure across the tournament, disrupting opposition attacking circles and playing a key role in Australia's defensive unit as the Diamonds closed their campaign with a podium finish.
Emerging Victorian defender Matilda Garrett also gained invaluable experience on the international stage as part of the Diamonds squad. The Commonwealth Games marked another significant milestone in Garrett's developing career, providing exposure to elite international competition alongside some of Australia's most experienced campaigners.
Although the Diamonds fell short of defending their Commonwealth Games title, the bronze medal capped another successful international campaign, with Victoria once again strongly represented across the Australian squad.
With the 2027 Netball World Cup on the horizon, the performances of Victoria's Diamonds reinforce the state's continued contribution to the national program as Australia turns its attention to the next major international challenge.
