NSW Phoenix Ready to Soar in Super League Showdown at Netball Central

After a strong start to the season, the NSW Phoenix are gearing up for their highly anticipated home game this weekend at Netball Central, and the energy is already building.

Last week’s match against the Vipers showcased the Phoenix’s growing strength and unity, with Adjani Zahra playing a pivotal role in their success. Known as “AJ” within the squad, she is a dynamic middle blocker whose journey from Indonesia to Australia has shaped her into one of NSW Phoenix’s most exciting talents.

Born in Jakarta on April 9, 2003, Adjani began her volleyball career in Indonesia before moving to Australia to pursue both academic and athletic goals. While studying film at the University of Sydney, she joined the NSW Phoenix program, competing in the Australian Junior Volleyball Championship, where she won back to back gold medals in 2023 and 2024. She then progressed to the NSW Phoenix Super League Team in 2024.

Her international experience includes a standout stint with the Yogya Falcons in Indonesia’s Proliga 2025, where she faced top-tier local and foreign talent. That time helped her overcome self-doubt and sharpen her consistency and confidence — qualities she now brings to the Super League stage in NSW.

“Playing in front of huge crowds made me incredibly nervous at first, but it helped me overcome self-doubt and become a better player. I focused on improving my skills with the help of incredible coaches back home. Facing top Indonesian and foreign players taught me invaluable lessons in consistency, confidence, and gameplay — lessons I’m bringing into this Super League season.” - Adjani Zahra 

Off court, AJ is admired for balancing her academic pursuits with elite-level sport, making her a role model for young athletes across both countries.

AJ was one of NSW Phoenix Women’s top performers of the week and was named in the Tournament Team of the Week, as nominated by the tournament’s coaching group. Reflecting on her performance, she shared:

“I played with a lot of confidence in the team, which helped me create the points I had during the game — big shout out to my captain/setter who trusted me to win those points. Even though we were tired from flying in just hours before, establishing an early lead set the tone and boosted our confidence. Compared to last season, our team connection is much stronger, and that made all the difference.”- Adjani Zahra 

This weekend, the Phoenix squad is determined to bring their best to the court — and they’re calling on the NSW volleyball community to bring the noise.

“Expect us to be ready and play the best we can for our home game. We want to show the NSW volleyball community a team they can be proud of, and one that juniors dream to be a part of. We’d love for the crowd to be loud and help fuel us with energy!” - Adjani Zahra

With a mix of international experience, renewed team chemistry, and home-court pride, the NSW Phoenix are ready to light up Netball Central.

Don’t miss the action — come support your team and be part of the energy!

MATCH DETAILS

• Game 1 (Women): 3:00 PM – NSW Phoenix vs Canberra Heat
• Game 2 (Men): 4:30 PM – NSW Phoenix vs Canberra Heat
• Doors open: 1:30 PM
• Location: Netball Central, 2 Olympic Blvd, Sydney Olympic Park
• Tickets: Available online until game time, or at the venue after 3:00 PM 

- Tickets on SALE NOW!

- $10 All Ages 

- $50 VIP Tickets

- $40 Family Pass