The 30-year-old Australian Diamonds international arrives as one of the most credentialled and experienced shooters in world netball, adding elite firepower and championship pedigree to the Firebirds' attacking line-up heading into the 2027 Super Netball season.
Standing at 190cm, Koenen brings exceptional mobility, athleticism and timing to the goal circle, qualities that have made her one of the most difficult shooters in the competition to defend and a genuine focal point in any attacking end.
Hailing from Magnetic Island, off the coast of Townsville in North Queensland, Koenen is a true product of the state's pathway system, having represented Queensland at underage level before going on to build one of the most decorated careers in the sport, both domestically and on the world stage.
Koenen's honour roll speaks for itself.
She claimed back-to-back Super Netball premierships with the Sunshine Coast Lightning in 2017 and 2018, before going on to debut for the Australian Diamonds in 2021 as Diamond No.182.
Since then, she has made over 50 appearances for her country, playing a starring role in the Diamonds' Commonwealth Games gold medal win in 2022 and their World Cup triumph in 2023.
Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills said landing a player of Koenen's calibre was a statement signing for the club.
“To bring a player of Cara's experience and pedigree into our program is a huge coup for this club,” Wills said.
“She's a proven winner at every level – Super Netball premierships, Commonwealth Games gold, a World Cup title – and she does it all with elite movement, timing and composure in the circle.
“The fact she's a proud Queenslander makes this signing even more special, and we can't wait to see what she brings to our attacking end in 2027."
Koenen said she was excited about taking on a new challenge at a new club.
“I am so excited to be joining the Queensland Firebirds to start the next chapter of my career,” she said.
“Growing up in North Queensland, the Firebirds were the team everyone looked up to as young netballers. With such a proud history and dedicated supporter base in the purple family, I am over the moon to have the opportunity to contribute both on and off the court.
“I am incredibly grateful for my time at Sunshine Coast Lightning and whilst leaving behind an environment like that is never easy, I’m excited to challenge myself in a new and exciting way with the Firebirds.
“I can’t wait to form new connections with world-class players while embracing everything the Firebirds family have to offer. Bring on 2027!”
