Adelaide Fire 2025 Season Review

The 2025 ONE Active Hockey One League season was a defining year for Adelaide Fire. Across both the women's and men's programs the club experienced contrasting paths, yet together they shaped a season that showed growth, character and determination.

Womens Team

The womens team delivered one of their strongest campaigns to date, finishing second on the ladder and reaching the finals weekend. Their progress was clear from the early rounds. A six to four victory over HC Melbourne in Round Two signalled their rise, highlighted by a brilliant three goal performance from Georgina Dowd in the final quarter. One week later they earned a composed four to two win at home over the Perth Thundersticks, confirming their ability to challenge the top sides in the league.

Individual excellence strengthened the teams success. Greta Hayes was named MVP of the league after a season marked by leadership, creativity and consistent impact. Goalkeeper Aleisha Power and defender Laura Barden were selected in the Womens Team of the Year, a reflection of the strength and reliability of Adelaide’s defensive unit.

Local talent also shone brightly. Three debutants from the metropolitan competition made their mark on the national stage. They were Caitlin Muir from Seacliff, Eliza White from Adelaide and Emma Kitto from Seacliff. Each contributed proudly to the squad and represented their home clubs with distinction.

A special moment in the season came in Round Seven when the team secured a thrilling shootout win against Brisbane Blaze, which also served as a farewell to Margot Van Geffen. Her leadership and contribution to Adelaide Fire were celebrated by teammates, coaches and fans alike, making it a memorable and emotional victory.

The womens program finished the year confident and respected by the wider community. Narrowly missing out on a Bronze Medal after a 2-3 loss to NSW Pride, their overall performance confirmed that Adelaide Fire is now a genuine contender.

Mens Team

The mens team endured a challenging season and finished in seventh place. Early heavy defeats exposed the gap between Adelaide and the top ranked teams in the competition, yet the squad continued to show commitment and resilience. Round Three at home against the Perth Thundersticks highlighted periods of improvement with accurate passing and determined defensive work. Round Four against the Tassie Tigers began slowly but a strong second half revealed glimpses of the teams potential.

Despite the results, younger players gained vital experience while senior leaders continued to drive standards. The season provided important lessons and gave the program a foundation for future development.

The mens squad also benefited from five local debutants. James Mitton from Burnside, Jaykay Young from PADHC, Lucas Noel from Adelaide, Rhun Williams from Seacliff and Will Johnson from PADHC. All five players represented their home clubs with pride.

The Burras representatives, Bryce Hamond and Lucas Toonen, missed the opening round but returned in Round Three against Perth Thundersticks. Both showed steady growth throughout the season. Toonen missed the final three matches due to national team commitments and preparation for the Under 21 World Cup.

A special thank you to Leon Hayward who provided veteran leadership & elite goalkeeping skills which were very impressive throughout the tournament. He had a magnificent performance in Round 2's defeat to HC Melbourne, where he had 27 saves and earned himself 'Save of the Year' awarded by The Shoutout Podcast.

Looking Ahead

In 2025 Adelaide Fire moved forward as one united club. The rise of the womens program and the perseverance of the mens program combined to create a season of meaningful progress. With continued development, belief and community support, Adelaide Fire aims to climb higher in the seasons ahead.

The club looks forward to the challenges and opportunities that 2026 will bring.

Thank you for your support throughout the season.