Sunshine Coast Lightning Announces New Ownership

Sunshine Coast Lightning, one of Australia’s most successful elite women’s sporting teams, has confirmed a change in ownership. Beginning October 1, 2025, Global Sports Management (GSM) will take over as the licence holder from the Melbourne Storm Group.

Formed in 2016 in partnership with the University of the Sunshine Coast, Lightning quickly became a powerhouse in Suncorp Super Netball. The club won back-to-back premierships in 2017 and 2018, reached the finals in six of nine seasons, and built a deep connection with the Sunshine Coast community.

Storm Group CEO Justin Rodski acknowledged the decision to step away was difficult but said it allows the organisation to focus resources on rugby league, particularly the expanding men’s and women’s NRL competitions. Rodski praised Lightning’s fans, staff, players, and partners for helping build a professional club that set benchmarks both on and off the court.

“From our premierships to our grassroots clinics, Lightning has brought enormous pride to the Sunshine Coast,” Rodski said. “Our focus has always been on ensuring this community has a team to follow.”

Incoming co-owners Justin Pascoe and Lee Hagipantelis expressed their excitement about leading Lightning into its next era. Pascoe, who has personal ties to the Sunshine Coast, described the opportunity as “exciting and humbling.” Hagipantelis highlighted the importance of local ownership, saying it ensures decisions reflect community priorities. Both pledged to build on Storm’s legacy by investing in women’s sport, strengthening fan connections, and creating opportunities for local talent.

Global Sports Management brings experience revitalising professional franchises, with recent acquisitions including the Ottawa BlackJacks (Canada) and Newcastle Jets (A-League). Their focus will be on delivering excellence on court, deepening pathways for emerging athletes, and enhancing the fan experience.

Netball Australia CEO Stacey West welcomed the transition, thanking the Storm Group for nearly a decade of partnership while expressing confidence in GSM’s leadership.

“The Suncorp Super Netball League is the most attended female sports league in Australia, and we continue to see record-breaking viewership,” West said. “The Lightning are going to go from strength to strength under Global Sports Management.”

The announcement signals the beginning of a new chapter for Sunshine Coast Lightning—one that builds on a proud foundation while embracing the passion and pride of the local community.

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