The Sydney Sirens finished fourth last season after a strong regular season but fell short in finals. Ahead of the 2026/27 Australian Women’s Ice Hockey League (AWIHL) season there are some big changes to the roster.
The Sirens announced their roster in early September but are yet to announce any imports for the upcoming season.
It hasn’t been the easiest lead up to the season with the shock of the ‘Sydney Sirens Netball’ team creating mixed emotions and concern for the team and fans alike.
However, with new coaching staff and roster moves, the Sirens are looking ahead with some exciting new talent coming through the ranks.
“I’m excited to see the development and growth of this team as the season goes,” Sirens head coach Cameron Laws told 6ixdubhockey.com
“We have a very dedicated hard-working group of local players that are ready to turn obstacles into opportunities.”
Juniors on the Rise
The Sirens bring are starting to usher in junior talent throughout their main squad ahead of the season.
Promising locals Aliza Ng, Poppy Noone, Elin Schmitz and Somer Zapatero all getting the call up to the main squad.
There are also two new players on the reserve squad, with Sadie Morgan and Chloe O’Hara joining the roster.
These juniors have had strong seasons within the IHNSW Women’s competition this year, with some previously being on the Future Sirens Training Squad and Reserves Squad they will only continue to develop within the AWIHL.
The future is looking bright for these young Sirens who are getting their chance in the big league.
Players on the Move
We are yet to hear of any import signings but there has already been some big changes to the roster.
With former Sirens Ebony Brunt, Eiland Kenyon and Lucy York signing with the Melbourne Ducks.
Players not returning to the club, most notably being stars Gabrielle Arps, Sarah Edney and Samantha Payne.
Sirens import Shelbi Guttormson will not be returning after her strong season as the teams leading point scorer with 41 points.
The Sirens have signed Jessica Meggs from the Melbourne Ice who will partner long-term goaltender Ella Licari for the upcoming season.
Licari finished the 2025/26 season with a save percentage of .891, at the Ice Meggs put up .845 across four games.
Experience backing the Sirens
Having experienced players on the team is crucial as junior players need experienced leadership to guide them as they develop.
Sirens have no shortage of experience across their forward lines and defensive pairings.
Kelsie Lang
Kelsie Lang originally joined the Sirens in 2024 as an import but since then she has become a permanent resident and has become a mainstay with the Sydney club.
Lang finished last season with 21 points and an impressive 16 assists and leading the league for assists by a defender.
Katherine McOnie
There isn’t much Kath McOnie hasn’t done. She has won championships with the Sirens and represented Australia numerous times in both ice and inline hockey.
McOnie has years of experience at all levels and will be able to provide valuable guidance for the young Sirens. In the 2025/26 season Kath finished with 12 points from 19 games.
Stephanie Newmark
Stephanie Newmark has a wealth of experience having played NCAA III for 4 years and is a current member of the national team.
Newmark has only been with the Sirens since the 2024/25 AWIHL season but is a consistent points scorer finishing last season with 24 points.
Her experience from NCAA hockey and the national squad will be crucial to the team and will be a great mentor to a young Sirens team.
Is it a Rebuild Year?
While we are yet to see if the Sydney Sirens will be bringing any imports in and without last season’s top two point scorers it may seem like the Sirens are entering a rebuild phase.
However, the Sirens have a strong base to build from, with lots of experience and very promising juniors on the rise.
There is so much potential with this squad heading into a new campaign, with strong leadership and team culture this Sirens squad will excel.
New coaches. New players. New season.
Anything is possible for the Sydney Sirens.
