This decision underscores the club’s commitment to fostering stability and sustaining the transformative systems Wills has implemented since her appointment.
While the 2025 season has presented challenges on the court, the club emphasises that foundational progress is critical to long-term success.
“Kiri has instilled structures and an environment that aligns with our vision for sustained excellence,” Netball Queensland Chief Executive Kate Davies said.
“We recognize that meaningful change requires time, and this extension ensures continuity as we accelerate toward our goals.
“Kiri’s approach has redefined our identity. This decision is a vote of trust in her strategy and our collective future.”
Wills, who joined the Firebirds in 2024, has already made a significant impact not just within the Firebirds’ Suncorp Super Netball program but across Netball Queensland’s pathways – emphasising program alignment particularly with the Firebirds Futures – who have recently secured a top four finish in this year’s Super Netball Reserves competition.
Acknowledging on-court results haven’t been what she would have wanted, Wills re-iterated her belief that the team was progressing on her ambitions of returning to the top of the SSN in years ahead.
“We’re not happy with where we sit on the table, but we’ve laid a strong foundation,” she said.
“Our staff and players are fully invested in this vision, and we’re determined to finish 2025 with pride – particularly in our final three home games.
“To our members and supporters: your unwavering backing this season has been felt deeply. You’ve made this club feel like home for me from the moment I arrived, and rest assured everyone at the club is working tirelessly to deliver the performances you deserve.”
The decision to extend Wills’ tenure has been welcomed by Firebirds leaders Hulita Veve and Ruby Bakewell-Doran, who were quick to praise Wills’ impact on the team’s culture, standards and vision.
“Kiri has brought so much confidence into this group. She’s had our back since the day she arrived,” co-captain Veve said.
“Kiri’s knowledge of the game is outstanding and she knows netball back to front but my favourite thing about her is the way she’s brought us together off the court. That connection piece is something she thrives on.
“She brings excitement to everything but also knows how to make us work hard when we mean business.”
Bakewell-Doran shared Veve's confidence in Wills' leadership of the club.
"Kiz’s contract extension is incredible news," Bakewell-Doran said.
"The impact she’s had on the club in the last six months has been phenomenal and I can’t wait to see what she’s able to create with more time under her belt.
"Her vision, passion and wisdom is next to none and I feel honoured to have her leading us."
The Firebirds face the Melbourne Mavericks this Sunday at Nissan Arena with remaining home matches to come against GIANTS Netball (June 29) and the NSW Swifts (July 13).
Tickets to all Firebirds home matches are available now via Ticketek.
