The Adelaide Thunderbirds will once again unite their Pink Army to support breast cancer research with the return of the club’s PLAY 4 PINK Match in 2026.
In partnership with The Hospital Research Foundation Group, PLAY 4 PINK has already raised more than $73,000 for breast cancer research, patient care and support services over the past two years.
Now in its third year, the Thunderbirds will bring this special match to life against Queensland Firebirds on Saturday, May 2 at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.
Media personality and breast cancer survivor Ali Clarke will join the initiative as an ambassador, helping to raise awareness and encourage the community to get on board.
“Breast cancer is something that changes your life in an instant, and I know firsthand how important support and research are for people going through it,” Clarke said.
“PLAY 4 PINK is such a powerful initiative because it brings the community together – every beanie, every donation, every person in pink genuinely makes a difference.”
Fans are encouraged to purchase special PLAY 4 PINK beanies, turn a virtual seat pink or donate to get behind the cause.
Buy your PLAY 4 PINK beanies HERE.
Custom PLAY 4 PINK warm-up tops will also return in 2026 with a fresh new design, worn by players on game day before being auctioned post-match to raise vital funds.
Every dollar raised through merchandise sales, auctions and public donations will go directly towards breast cancer research, patient care and accommodation services delivered by The Hospital Research Foundation Group.
One in seven women are diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia – the equivalent of one person for every netball position.
Adelaide Thunderbirds and Netball SA CEO Bronwyn Klei said the club was proud to see the initiative continue to grow.
“PLAY 4 PINK has quickly become a really meaningful part of our season, and we’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved alongside The Hospital Research Foundation Group,” Klei said.
“To have raised more than $73,000 in just two years shows the power of our netball community and how strongly this cause resonates.
“We know this is an issue that touches so many people, and we’re calling on the netball community and our Pink Army to once again show up, wear pink and help us continue to build on that impact in 2026.”
Tickets to the Thunderbirds’ PLAY 4 PINK Round are available now.
The Adelaide Thunderbirds’ PLAY 4 PINK Match will take place Saturday, May 2 from 6:30pm ACST at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre as the side hosts the Firebirds.
