THE Queensland Firebirds have parted ways with assistant coach Sara Francis-Bayman.
The former England international leaves the Firebirds with immediate effect.
Netball Queensland CEO Kate Davies says the timing of the news is difficult with the Firebirds’ opening Suncorp Super Netball fixture against Adelaide Thunderbirds at Nissan Arena on Sunday.
“There is never a good time for decisions like these and I acknowledge that six days out from our first home game is far from ideal,” Davies said.
Davies said Netball Queensland had thanked Francis-Bayman for her contribution over the past four months and wished her well with the next steps of her career.
“To uphold the confidentiality of all involved, we will not discuss publicly the reasons behind the decision..
“I thank Sara for the contribution she has made and personally and sincerely wish her all the best for the future.”
Davies said the focus for Firebirds players and staff is on Sunday’s clash with the Thunderbirds, which is heading to a capacity crowd for Head Coach Bec Bulley’s first SSN game at the helm.
“I cannot wait to see Nissan Arena transformed on Sunday into a purple fortress for the start of another exciting Suncorp Super Netball season.”
A search for a new assistant coach is underway.
