Kate Moloney Extends Captaincy Reign at Melbourne Vixens as Kiera Austin Steps Up as Vice-Captain for 2025…
The Melbourne Vixens have announced their leadership team for the 2025 Super Netball season, confirming that long-time captain Kate Moloney will continue at the helm while her Australian Diamonds teammate Kiera Austin has been appointed vice-captain for the first time. The announcement underscores the club’s blend of continuity and renewal as they prepare to defend their championship and build on a highly successful 2024 campaign.
Moloney, who has captained the Vixens since 2017, enters her ninth consecutive season in the role. Widely respected for her tenacity, resilience, and leadership both on and off the court, Moloney has become synonymous with the club’s identity. Her ability to galvanize her teammates and consistently perform at the highest level has ensured the Vixens remain one of the league’s most formidable sides.
“Leading this team is the greatest honor of my career,” Moloney said in a statement. “The Vixens are my home, and every season I’m more inspired by the players, staff, and fans that make this club so special. We had a fantastic 2024, but we know the competition will be even tougher in 2025. I’m ready to give everything again to make sure we keep driving this group forward.”
While Moloney’s leadership was widely expected to continue, the appointment of Kiera Austin as vice-captain signals a strategic move toward shaping the Vixens’ next generation of leaders. Austin, who joined the club in 2022 after a stint with the Giants, has grown into a central figure in the Vixens’ attack end. Known for her composure under pressure, elite shooting accuracy, and creative playmaking, the 27-year-old has established herself as one of the most reliable performers in Super Netball.
Austin’s leadership qualities have also been evident in the national setup, where she has become a key contributor for the Diamonds. The vice-captaincy marks her first official leadership role at club level and represents recognition of the influence she already holds within the group.
“I’m incredibly humbled by this opportunity,” Austin said. “To be named vice-captain alongside Kate, who has been such a role model for me and so many others, is very special. This team has so much drive and determination, and I’m excited to step into a role where I can help support and guide us through the challenges ahead.”
Head coach Simone McKinnis praised the leadership pairing, highlighting the balance between Moloney’s experience and Austin’s fresh perspective.
“Kate’s leadership has been the cornerstone of this team for years—her passion, competitiveness, and ability to lift those around her are unmatched. At the same time, Kiera has grown immensely in her game and her presence within the group. She’s calm, thoughtful, and leads by example. Together, they form a strong and complementary leadership team,” McKinnis said.
The decision also reflects the Vixens’ broader vision for long-term success. With senior players like Moloney, Liz Watson, and Jo Weston continuing to anchor the squad, the introduction of younger leaders like Austin ensures a smooth transition for the future.
The announcement comes amid growing excitement for the 2025 Super Netball season, with the Vixens widely tipped as one of the teams to beat. Their 2024 campaign ended in glory as they secured the championship, driven by a mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent. Retaining Moloney at the helm provides stability, while Austin’s elevation injects new energy into the leadership structure.
Fans have warmly received the news, with many praising the blend of experience and innovation. Social media platforms quickly filled with messages of support, highlighting Moloney’s unwavering commitment and Austin’s deserved recognition.
For the Vixens, the leadership announcement sets the tone for what they hope will be another successful year. With Moloney continuing to inspire from the center and Austin ready to embrace her new responsibilities, the club enters 2025 with clarity, confidence, and a hunger to defend their crown.
As the countdown to the season begins, one thing is clear: the Melbourne Vixens remain in steady hands, led by a captain who embodies the club’s heart and soul, and a rising leader ready to shape its future.
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Would you like me to also create a player leadership history timeline (Moloney’s captaincy milestones and Austin’s career highlights) to add more depth for fans?
