Melbourne Vixens Stun Fever to Win Super Netball Final

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In front of over 15,000 roaring fans, the Melbourne Vixens pulled off one of the greatest upsets in Super Netball history, defeating the heavily favoured West Coast Fever 59-58 to claim the 2025 championship title.

Despite finishing fourth on the ladder, the Vixens defied expectations with a nail-biting victory, marking a fairy tale finish for coach Simone McKinnis, who announced her resignation earlier this year.

“No one thought we could do it,” said Vixens captain Kate Moloney during the post-match presentation. The team’s transformation from a shaky start to season champions is one of resilience and unity.

McKinnis, a decorated former Australian representative, revealed that her mid-season resignation stemmed from personal factors. However, the decision became a turning point for the squad. “It allowed us to move on,” McKinnis said. “We were flat at the start of the season. Once we talked honestly, everything changed.”

With only two wins after six rounds, the Vixens needed a reset. A team bonding session at a local pub sparked by McKinnis’ lighthearted suggestion proved crucial. “It wasn’t about the drinks,” Moloney explained. “It was about spending time together and remembering why we play.”

From that moment, the Vixens won eight of their next ten matches, earning their place in a second consecutive grand final.

The match at Rod Laver Arena was a high-intensity contest from start to finish. Moloney set the tone with a sharp opening centre pass, leading to the first goal by Sophie Garbin. But the Fever, led by star shooter Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard, quickly responded.

Tensions rose in the final quarter as the Vixens edged ahead. Late errors from the Fever, under mounting pressure, allowed the home side to hold possession in the dying seconds. When the final whistle blew, Rod Laver erupted in celebration.

“I still can’t believe we did it,” said McKinnis. “I’m just so proud of how the girls played and the way they attacked the game.”

The win was a moment of redemption for the Vixens, who lost last year’s decider to Adelaide and were twice defeated by the Fever earlier in the 2025 season. It also caps a remarkable coaching career for McKinnis, who leaves with three premierships and three minor premierships.

Though stepping away from the sport for now, McKinnis hinted she may not be done with coaching: “I thought we were the one team that could beat them. I still believe that.”