Over 30 former Firebirds were among the 135 guests at Victoria Park Function Centre in Brisbane for the event, a chance to for Queensland netball stars of the past to reconnect with each other and the game – as well as celebrate their contribution to the Firebirds and Queensland netball in general.
The function is one part of Netball Queensland’s commitment to reconnecting with past players and preserving the game’s history.
For Wilson, who made over 150 appearances for Queensland during her storied playing career as well as coaching the Firebirds from 2006 to 2009, it is a concept that she welcomes.
“Celebrating the past and reconnecting with old teammates is just the icing on the cake,” Wilson said.
“It’s just so wonderful. We share so many great stories and besides being able to throw and catch and shoot a few goals we just had so many fun times.
“I just think the initiative of the 5th Quarter is tremendous.”
Wilson was part of a superstar panel that also featured fellow former Queensland and Australian representative Liz White OAM as well as Firebirds’ great Karen Clarke.
Long-time netball supporter and Queensland Rugby League CEO Ben Ikin also shared his memories of transitioning away from an elite playing career into a career off the field.
Wilson was hopeful Friday’s breakfast is the start of a new tradition for Queensland netball which will not only provide a chance for former legends to reconnect but also to enable the code to draw upon the experience, know-how and talents of ex-players, coaches and administrators.
“It’s so important that the generation of today know what happened beforehand and then they have a greater appreciation of those that paved the way and laid the foundations so that they to can then make changes and help the sport grow,” she said.
“It would be wonderful to have an annual event and I know that’s on the radar for Netball Queensland and to have it in your calendar so that we know you can get together and share the war stories and just enjoy each other’s company again.
“There’s so many talented women amongst us whether it be on the court or off the court; highly intelligent, hold amazing jobs, have wonderful professional careers – have so much to offer both on and off the court.
“Some have turned into great coaches, great administrators so it’s about using that expertise that’s in our backyard to help our sport grow.”
If you or someone you know is a former Queensland netball representative, coach or administrator eager to reconnect with the Former Firebirds family, email info@netballq.org.au.
