The Ballarat Bronteys have landed a blockbuster signing ahead of the 2026 JSSN season, confirming that New Zealand Golden Links superstar Tippah Dwan will join the club as a permanent replacement for injured goaler Sienna Housby.
Housby’s ACL rupture during the Australian Academy’s international season preparations earlier this month left a huge hole in the Bronteys’ plans. Regarded as one of the league’s most promising young shooters, her absence is a blow not just for the club but for the entire JSSN community. But in a stunning move, the Bronteys have acted decisively, bringing Dwan across the Tasman in what could prove to be one of the signings of the season.
Tippah’s road back to the big stage
For Tippah Dwan, this moment has been years in the making. Once hailed as one of New Zealand’s brightest shooting prospects, her journey has been anything but smooth. A devastating patellar tendon rupture sidelined her in 2022, sparking a long and uncertain rehabilitation that tested her resilience and determination.
From there, the 27-year-old found herself on the move, navigating three different clubs across three seasons as she fought to re-establish herself at the elite level. The constant upheaval might have derailed lesser athletes, but Dwan’s commitment to her craft never wavered.
By 2025, she had rebuilt her confidence and form with the Golden Links, where she reminded the netball world of her class: a silky goal attack with the ability to roam and create play, and a goal shooter calm under pressure with deadly accuracy under the post.
A perfect fit for Ballarat
The Bronteys believe Dwan is the ideal addition to their squad, not just as a replacement, but as a genuine game-changer.
“Tippah brings international experience, composure, and versatility,” said head coach Courtney Reynold's. “She’s been through so much in recent years and come out stronger. She can hold in the circle as a GS or roam as a creative GA, which gives us enormous flexibility heading into 2026.
“We were devastated for Sienna, but Tippah’s arrival gives us fresh confidence. She’s a leader, and she’s hungry. That’s exactly what this group needs.”
Dwan ready for her fresh start
For Dwan, the move to Australia represents both a challenge and an opportunity.
“It’s been a rollercoaster,” she admitted. “The injury, the recovery, moving clubs—it’s been hard. But I’ve learnt a lot about myself, and I’ve come out of it determined to enjoy my netball again.
“Landing with the Bronteys feels like a new chapter. They’ve given me this chance, and I want to repay that by giving everything on and off the court. I’m excited to link up with Jada Watson and the rest of the squad. We’ve got so much potential, and I can’t wait to be part of it.”
Looking ahead
Dwan’s arrival gives the Bronteys an imposing attacking end heading into 2026. She is expected to form a dynamic shooting partnership with Lilly Graham, combining Graham's creativity and flair with Dwan’s experience and accuracy.
Meanwhile, the club has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Sienna Housby, who will undergo surgery and begin her rehabilitation program with the Bronteys’ medical and performance team.
“Sienna is still very much part of our future,” Reynolds said. “We’ll support her every step of the way and can’t wait to see her back in Bronteys colours when the time is right.”
The addition of Tippah Dwan is more than just an injury replacement—it’s a statement of intent. After a turbulent end to 2025, the Bronteys have shown they are ready to fight for their place at the top of the JSSN in 2026.
Why it matters
For fans, this signing signals a new era. Tippah Dwan’s resilience mirrors the Bronteys’ own spirit: never giving in, always pushing forward. With her versatility at GA and GS, she not only fills the gap left by Housby but elevates the Bronteys’ attack to one of the most formidable in the competition.
The 2026 JSSN season is still months away, but the Bronteys have already put the league on notice: they’re not going anywhere quietly.
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