But a lot can change in 18 months off the court, none more so than the unpredictability and hardship of losing a loved one.
“I was going to retire after that 2019 season, but I have new motivations now,” Sullivan said.
Losing her mother, Gerri Stevens, to illness last year, Sullivan has found herself drawn back to the Lakers, this time as A-grade coach.
A former C-grade coach and netball co-ordinator, this will be the first time Sullivan has taken on the top job.
But it is her passion for netball, alongside her mother's own love of the sport, that makes Sullivan most excited for this new chapter at the club.
It has also brought Sullivan's husband Linc back with her - with the former premiership coach taking back the reins of the senior side alongside Daryl Harrison.
“It was that personal experience - and it happened quickly for us,” Sullivan said.
“Mum was with us until November, but now its re-awakened our love for footy and netball, and our love for the club.
“With Linc also taking on the senior coaching role, and my mum's passion was netball, that has been my motivation to keep playing and to enjoy it.”
As one of only a handful of senior premiership players returning this season, Sullivan said she was enjoying her time back at the club.
“I'm really excited, mainly for our young girls in the squad,” she said.
“Certainly my mayor focus when taking training is getting that enjoyment for sport and netball back.
“Nagambie has been so successful, but there comes a time where you potentially lose that playing group.
“Our focus is on development, and having a season off, it shows you how important enjoying sport can be.
“We've always been competitive and we'll certainly drive for that success and finals - but that will be the bonus.”
It won't just be the A-grade team Nagambie puts its stocks into, with Sullivan leading the group as one club.
“A focus won't be having that set A-grade side,” she said.
“Girls have a real opportunity to train and show their capabilities. It's a new look for A-grade.
“That’s the thing - the girls aged 18 to 22, they are certainly the future.”
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