Thwaites joins Mavs as specialist coach

SHE made her name as a Vixen and an Australian Diamond, but Caitlin Thwaites will be in the Melbourne Mavericks’ corner this Super Netball season.

The Bendigo born-and-bred former international netball star has joined the Mavs as a specialist shooting coach.

One of Australian netball’s most respected figures, the 230–game national league veteran and dual–position threat at both goal attack and goal shooter enjoyed an 18–season career at the elite level, highlighted by gold medals at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and 2015 Netball World Cup.

She capped her playing journey with fairytale finish in the form of a premiership with the Melbourne Vixens in 2020, before retiring at the top of her game.

Since stepping away from elite competition, Thwaites has balanced coaching roles with starting her own young family and furthering her work across media and development pathways.

She has continued to stay connected to the sport through specialist coaching and various performance programs.

Thwaites, a Bendigo Sports Star Awards Hall of fame inductee, said she was excited to be involved in yet another SSN season in 2026.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of the Mavs this season, and working closely with a talented group of young shooters,” Thwaites said.

“Having grown up in the Bendigo region, it’s really special to be contributing to a club that’s committed to growing the game across Victoria.

“I can’t wait to help shape the Mavs’ attacking circle and be part of their journey this season.”

Thwaites, who won a national league leading goal scorer award while playing for Collingwood Magpies in 2017, will work closely with the Mavs’ talented goal shooting stocks comprising the third-year SSN club’s inaugural MVP Shimona Nelson, recruit Reilley Batcheldor, Uneeq Palavi, with support from Sacha McDonald.

Mavs general manager Shae Bolton–Brown hailed Thwaites acquisition as a coup.

“Caity is one of the most decorated and admired players our sport has produced, and having her expertise within our coaching group is a huge asset,” she said.

“Her technical skill, leadership and genuine connection to Victorian netball make her a perfect fit for the Mavs.”

Thwaites’ new role with the Mavs will be just one part of her involvement in SSN this year.

She will return as a commentator for Fox Netball, whose coverage included last weekend’s Mavs season opener against Giants, fittingly held in her home region of Bendigo.