Triple Premiership winning Firebird Clare Ferguson is set to return to the Queensland Club fulltime in 2021.
Having served as a defensive specialist coach in 2020, Ferguson has been appointed as Megan Anderson’s Assistant Coach for the upcoming Suncorp Super Netball campaign.
The pair, once direct opponents on court, will reunite after working together as Assistant Coaches in the Australian Diamonds environment for the past two years.
Ferguson expressed her pride in joining Anderson’s coaching team ahead of what shapes as an exciting season for the Queensland Firebirds.
“To be given the opportunity to assist Megan in shaping the future of this young and talented group of athletes is such a privilege,” Ferguson said.
“2020 demonstrated the incredible potential this playing group possesses and with Megan’s creativity and vision for the team moving forward, I am excited for the season ahead.”
With a playing career spanning 10 years at the Club, including the Firebirds’ Premiership winning seasons in 2011, 2015 and 2016, Ferguson possesses a unique insight into what it means to wear the purple dress and achieve at the highest level.
It’s that passion and experience Anderson believes will be a significant asset to the team in 2021.
“Clare and I quickly formed a great coaching partnership at the Diamonds and as soon as I was appointed Head Coach I knew I wanted her as my Assistant,” Anderson said.
“She was an absolute workhorse as a player and demands that high performance nature from her athletes now which makes her so well respected by the entire group.”
“Most importantly though our thoughts on values, principles and culture are very much aligned and in tune and I really can’t wait to work together again throughout this season.”
2020 Assistant Coach Katie Walker will also continue with the team as a specialist coach for the upcoming season, with her knowledge and values continuing to play an important role in the team’s culture.
The Queensland Firebirds returned to pre-season training this week as they commence preparations for their 2021 Suncorp Super Netball campaign.
