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Find your frequency here'Best case scenario': Nweke's dual dream realised
Kieran Bingham • August 12th, 2025 4:30 pm
Photo: Photosport
Twelve months ago, Grace Nweke wasn’t sure if she’d ever wear the black dress again.
Signing with the NSW Swifts threw her Silver Ferns eligibility into doubt, with no clear pathway and limited communication from Netball New Zealand.
Now, fast forward a year, and Nweke finds herself re-signed in Sydney and eligible to represent her country, a resolution she describes to Sport Nation's Millsy & Guy as the “best-case scenario.”
“Obviously, it’s an honour to represent your country and I think it was a really tough time, you know, 12 months ago, with understanding the repercussions of taking a contract in Australia and what that means to my eligibility,” she said.
“To fast forward 12 months and be able to re-sign at the Swifts and be eligible for the next year or so for Silver Ferns campaigns is just, obviously, the best-case scenario for me and I feel very grateful to be in a position to play for both teams.
"Specifically for the Ferns. It’s where my heart is and a team that I enjoy being a part of.”
The past year was marked by a lack of clarity. Even as she trained and played week to week in Sydney, the international future of one of New Zealand’s most important players remained up in the air.
“There was not very much information for the better part of the season,” Nweke said.
“Most of the year just waiting for more information around what the process would look like. And there was, I guess, a rumour that they would look to open up an eligibility process and that kind of didn’t come to fruition until we all found out together a few weeks ago.”
Netball NZ's mysterious eligibility criteria | Scotty & Izzy
Despite the uncertainty, Nweke has thrived in her new environment. Surrounded by top-tier opposition and under the demands of Super Netball’s intensity, she’s expanded her game - and her voice.
“I mean, I’d like to think so. I hope it looks that way,” she laughed, when asked if she’s improved.
“I do feel that I am a better player at the moment. I know I have more confidence, especially off the court, my understanding of the game, my analysis, my ability to contribute in team discussions.
"I feel like my leadership has really grown, which is a big part of the kind of player I want to be.”
That growth will be crucial for the Silver Ferns, especially with the absence of captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio and a young, untested shooting circle featuring Saviour Tui, Martina Salmon and Filda Vui.
“I wouldn’t see it so much as taking on my shoulders and more so taking on the opportunity to step into a leadership role a bit more,” Nweke said.
“I’m excited to lead that unit and to encourage those girls to take the opportunity with two hands.”
Netball's potential exodus | Centre Pass: In Focus
Nweke’s move across the ditch is now part of a broader trend.
On Tuesday, former Ferns vice-captain Kelly Jackson (née Jury) was confirmed as joining the Queensland Firebirds, and more high-profile New Zealand signings are expected.
“It’s so exciting,” Nweke said.
“I think just even from a Silver Ferns perspective, it just adds to the feathers in the bow of the group that we have here. I just already know the way that I feel like I’ve shifted as an individual.
"To see that happen for Kelly, as well as whoever else takes on the opportunity, already has me so excited for the Commonwealth Games and for World Cup.”
For now, though, Nweke is exactly where she wants to be, thriving in Australia, but firmly committed to the black dress.
