Eboni Usoro-Brown is no stranger to England’s Vitality Roses squad, though her current selection is one that has many in awe.
It was 2008 when the then 20-year-old defender made her debut for her country – since, she has captained the side and helped it win both a Commonwealth Games gold and bronze medal.
Now at the age of 34, Usoro-Brown has again been selected for international duties, after returning to netball in 2021 following time away from the sport for the birth of daughter Savannah.
Queensland Firebirds head coach Megan Anderson said she has immense admiration for the England international who now calls Brisbane home.
“Making a national squad is impressive and even though Eboni has been a part of the Roses for a long time, the moment you hear your name is always special,” Anderson said.
“Ebs has had a huge six months with Quad Series and moving to Australia, so it's particularly rewarding for her knowing the hard work and sacrifice has played off.
“As a coach it's nice to know that you've been able to help them achieve a goal like this.”
During the initial conversations of Usoro-Brown joining the Firebirds she made clear she wanted to play in the best competition in the world to boost her chances of representing England.
According to Anderson that drive and hunger from the bullish defender doesn’t only apply to international duties, it has been evident by the entire playing group from the moment she arrived at Nissan Arena.
“She’s been all in for us right from the start,” the Firebirds head coach said.
“From the moment she signed with us we saw how committed she was, she often joined team meetings via Zoom, even if it was 3am in the UK.
“I'm just so happy she's one step closer to another Comm Games appearance and I hope to continue to guide her in the right direction.”
Usoro-Brown was the final piece to the Firebirds’ puzzle during last year’s playing signing period, with her playing resume and reputation naturally making her one of the biggest signings by any SSN team.
Now seven games into the 2022 season and the lawyer-by-trade is definitely holding court and proving to be a key to the Firebirds’ finals chances.
“We're loving having Ebs here at the Firebirds and just marvel at her ability to be a mum, be so dedicated to training and develop strong combinations in our defensive unit so quickly,” Anderson said.
“She is an amazing advocate for hard work, dedication, and commitment.
“Her leadership and experience have been invaluable for us. Her on-court awareness and calm demeanour really give us calm and clarity in the defence end.”
If Usoro-Brown earns selection for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, she could have the task of playing on Firebirds teammates and Origin Australian Diamonds duo Gretel Bueta or Donnell Wallam.
