The Queensland Firebirds are delighted with the news that Gretel Bueta is expecting her second child.
Bueta, who made a successful return to the court in 2021 after giving birth to son Bobby, announced on Monday Tuesday she and husband Niko will welcome another child into their family next year.
The superstar goaler has withdrawn from Australia’s upcoming international series against New Zealand and England.
Bueta will also sit out the 2023 Suncorp Super Netball campaign.
“On behalf of the entire club and all of Netball Queensland I pass on my most heartfelt congratulations to Gretel, Niko and Bobby on this exciting news,” Firebirds head coach Bec Bulley said.
“While Gretel won’t be on the court with us next year, she will of course remain a big part of the Firebirds team throughout the pre-season and SSN23 campaign. And we look forward to welcoming the newest member of our Purple Family.”
Bueta has made a sensational return to the game after giving birth to Bobby, reaching her 100-game milestone during the 2022 Suncorp Super Netball season.
The 29-year-old also shone for the Diamonds in January’s Quad Series in England, receiving player of the final and tournament honours as Australia defeated the hosts in the decider.
Bueta was also a key member of Australia’s Commonwealth Games gold-medal winning squad in Birmingham in July, playing all seven matches before being voted Diamonds MVP by fans.
“Niko and I are so excited for Bobby to be a big brother and welcome another baby to our family,” Bueta said.
“I am so grateful to our extended Diamonds and Firebirds family, the love and support from my teammates and support staff has been overwhelming.
“I can’t wait to cheer them on from the sidelines.”
Bulley and her coaching staff will begin the hunt to identify a replacement player for Bueta in next year’s Suncorp Super Netball squad.
“The process to replace a world-class talent like Gretel won’t be easy but we’ll be making sure to search near and far to secure the best available player for our 2023 Firebirds squad,” Bulley said.
We’re just thrilled for Gretel and wish her and her family all the best over the coming months.”
