“An Emotional Farewell at the Heart of Australian Netball: Melbourne Vixens Players Come Together in a Touching Tribute to Departing Head Coach Simone McKinnis, Showering Her With Thoughtful Surprise Gifts, Heartfelt Messages, and a Special Commemorative Trophy to Celebrate Her Remarkable Legacy, Inspirational Leadership, and Lasting Impact on the Club and the Sport….
In a heartfelt and emotional send-off, the Melbourne Vixens paid tribute to their departing head coach, Simone McKinnis OAM, in a way that reflected not only her remarkable legacy but also the deep affection and respect she has earned from her players, staff, and the broader netball community. McKinnis, who has been at the helm of the Vixens for over a decade, was showered with surprise gifts, a specially commissioned trophy, and touching words of appreciation during her final days with the club.
The Vixens, one of Australia’s most successful Super Netball franchises, have been synonymous with stability and resilience under McKinnis’s stewardship. Known for her relentless work ethic, tactical intelligence, and ability to inspire, she led the side to two premierships (2014 and 2020) and consistently kept them among the league’s elite. As she prepares to step away from the role, the atmosphere at the farewell event was a blend of nostalgia, gratitude, and celebration.
Players presented McKinnis with personalized gifts that carried sentimental value, each representing a unique bond or memory shared with their coach. Some included framed jerseys with heartfelt messages, while others gifted hand-written letters recounting moments when her encouragement had lifted them both on and off the court. The most symbolic gesture came when the team unveiled a custom-made trophy, inscribed with words honoring her contribution: “To Simone McKinnis – A Leader, A Mentor, A Champion Forever in Vixens History.”
Current captain Kate Moloney delivered a moving speech, praising McKinnis for her unwavering belief in the players, even during difficult seasons. “Simone hasn’t just been our coach,” Moloney said, holding back tears. “She’s been our mentor, our rock, and the heartbeat of this team. She taught us what it truly means to wear the Vixens dress with pride. Today, we thank her not only for the wins but for shaping us as players and as women.”
Teammates echoed similar sentiments, sharing anecdotes about McKinnis’s motivational halftime talks, her insistence on high standards, and her trademark composure during tense matches. Former players, too, joined the tributes via video messages, with several acknowledging that her influence extended beyond netball, instilling values of discipline, humility, and teamwork.
McKinnis, visibly touched by the outpouring, expressed her gratitude to the players, staff, and fans. “I’m honestly overwhelmed,” she admitted during her farewell speech. “This team has been my family for so long, and I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together. The trophies and titles are special, but it’s the relationships, the growth, and the resilience I’ve seen in these women that mean the most. I leave knowing the Vixens will always carry that spirit forward.”
Under her leadership, the Vixens developed a reputation for nurturing young talent and building a culture that valued consistency and unity. Many of Australia’s elite netballers, including those who went on to represent the Diamonds, credit McKinnis for shaping their careers. Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Victorian netball history, and her successor will have big shoes to fill.
The farewell ceremony concluded with a standing ovation from fans, friends, and family, as McKinnis held the trophy aloft, surrounded by the players she has mentored and inspired. It was a fitting end to a tenure defined not only by silverware but by the indelible impact she has left on the lives of those she guided.
As the Melbourne Vixens prepare to move forward into a new era, they do so carrying the legacy of Simone McKinnis — a coach whose passion, loyalty, and leadership have left an enduring imprint on Australian netball.
Would you like me to also expand this into a feature-style article (around 800–1000 words) with more background on her playing career and quotes from Netball Australia officials.