Australia’s Sunshine Coast Lightning, the only regional club in the Super Netball league, is set to enter a new era under the ownership of the Global Sports Fund Management Group. This transition marks the end of an era for the club, which was co-founded by the NRL’s Melbourne Storm and the University of the Sunshine Coast in 2016. The Lightning has since become a powerhouse in Australian women’s sports, clinching back-to-back premierships in 2017 and 2018, and reaching the finals in six of its nine seasons.
The announcement comes as the Melbourne Storm and the University of the Sunshine Coast step back to allow Global Sports Fund Management Group to take over as the new license holder. The transition is set to be completed by October 1, marking a significant shift in the club’s management and strategic direction.
Melbourne Storm Refocuses on Rugby
Justin Rodski, the chief group executive of Melbourne Storm, emphasized the club’s need to concentrate on its core rugby league operations, particularly with the growth of both men’s and women’s games in the NRL. “This move will now allow the club to focus on rugby league in our home of Victoria,” Rodski stated. He highlighted the importance of nurturing the next generation of Storm athletes, both male and female.
Rodski also expressed gratitude towards the Lightning and its dedicated fan base, acknowledging the club’s achievements and the community’s support over the years.
Global Sports Fund Management Group’s Vision
Justin Pascoe and Lee Hagipantelis, co-owners of the Global Sports Fund Management Group, have expressed their commitment to further developing the Lightning. “We’re committed to investing in women’s sport, building deeper connections with fans and partners, and ensuring the Lightning remains a source of pride for this region for many years to come,” Hagipantelis stated.
Pascoe, who has personal ties to the Sunshine Coast, emphasized his dedication to the club’s success. “The Sunshine Coast has been part of my life since I was four years old,” he shared, underscoring his connection to the area.
According to the group’s website, their strategy involves transforming sports teams from underperformers to elite entities. This includes recruiting skilled players and experienced coaches, enhancing fan experiences, and strengthening brand identity.
Netball Australia’s Optimistic Outlook
Stacey West, the chief of Netball Australia, expressed her appreciation for the Melbourne Storm’s role in establishing the Lightning and welcomed the new ownership. She highlighted the exciting times ahead for netball, particularly as the sport campaigns for inclusion in the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“The Suncorp Super Netball League is the most attended female sports league in Australia and we also had further record-breaking viewership growth last year,” West noted. “I can’t wait to see the next phase for the Lightning to be built by Global Sports management. The Lightning are going to go from strength to strength.”
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for Lightning
The transition of ownership is not just a change in management but a pivotal moment for the Sunshine Coast Lightning. With Global Sports Fund Management Group at the helm, the club is poised to leverage new strategies and investments to enhance its competitive edge and community engagement.
As the Lightning prepares to embark on this new chapter, the commitment to maintaining its status as a leading force in women’s sports remains unwavering. Fans and stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see how the club evolves under its new leadership, with hopes high for continued success on and off the court.
