AFTER nearly a decade in Ipswich basketball, leadership comes naturally to Ipswich Force veteran Georgia Ralph.
But this season, the long-serving guard returns to the court with a new title to add to teammate, leader and competitor – mother.
Six months after welcoming daughter Skyler, Ralph is back in the Ipswich Force line-up for the 2026 NBL1 North season.
Originally from Townsville, she landed here in 2016 after finishing college, finding what would become a long-term home with the Ipswich Force women’s program.
Nearly 10 years later, the club remains more than just a team.
“It really is home,” she said.
“I’m past the point where I’m trying to get another contract somewhere else. I just want to play with good people in a good environment – and that’s what we have here.
Married to men’s program mainstay Jason Ralph, she returns to elite basketball still hungry, competitive and with the full support of new head coach Dean Aspland.
“He’s put zero pressure on me,” she said.
“That’s given me the space to have patience with my body, which isn’t something I’m naturally very good at.”
Head Coach Aspland said Ralph brings ample to the squad, organisation and sport.
“Georgia brings leadership, integrity, commitment and effort to a program that is rebuilding with a focus on those exact things,” Aspland said.
“She is an incredibly coachable and a good mentor for young players, and as the custodian of No.7, she embodies what Ipswich Force strives to be on every possession, every game, every day.”
Leadership has followed Ralph throughout her career, from junior representative teams to her role as one of the experienced voices in the Lady Force locker room.
But she insists it’s never about ego.
“I’m competitive, but leadership is just about wanting the best for the team,” she said.
“I grew up with amazing leaders around me and I just want to pass that on.”
That philosophy fits with the Force’s leadership structure this season, which emphasises shared responsibility across the squad rather than a single dominant voice.
With a new coach, systems and players, there may be early adjustments, but the potential is clear.
For Ralph, the 2026 season isn’t just another campaign.
It’s a return to the court, a continuation of a decade-long commitment to Ipswich basketball – and the beginning of a new chapter, with a young daughter now watching from the stands.
