Simpson’s amazing 11-year career in the purple dress will be honoured at this Saturday’s Suncorp Super Netball First Nations Round clash against the Sunshine Coast Lightning at Nissan Arena.
Fittingly, Simpson will also be officially named as an ambassador for the Diamond Spirit program at the game.
Diamond Spirit is a capacity-building program delivered in school and community settings, with a mission to Educate, Engage and Empower First Nations girls, young women and their communities through the power of netball.
Diamond Spirit Educate Hubs build culturally safe and supported learning environments to improve academic and post-school outcomes for First Nations girls and young women in Years 7-12. Activities delivered as part of the Educate pillar, including leadership and cultural camps, are designed to enhance students’ emotional engagement with learning and post-school opportunities.
Moreover, Diamond Spirit community programs extend netball opportunities to some of Queensland's most remote communities, promoting participation and enabling upskilling. These initiatives support and steer First Nations youth into inter-community competitions, nurturing talent and community cohesion alike.
Simpson has always had a strong connection to the program and is thrilled to be coming on board officially in her new role.
“For me, netball has always been far more than just a game,” Simpson said.
“Over the last few years, being welcomed into the Diamond Spirit program has been incredibly enriching, thanks to participants’ willingness to teach and share their rich culture and community.
“I hope to help enhance their confidence and leadership skills so they can continue to make a positive impact on society, just as they have impacted me.”
The announcement will be part of a celebration of Simpson’s amazing career for the Firebirds at the Round 13 match against the Lightning.
One of just three players to make over 150 appearances for the club, Simpson won premierships in 2015 and 2016 after moving from her native Sydney to Brisbane ahead of the 2013 season alongside current club captain Kim Ravaillion.
Simpson would appear in four Grand Finals during her time with the Firebirds, captaining the club from 2017 to 2022 and picking up the Liz Ellis Diamond and Firebirds’ MVP award – both in 2017.
A fan favourite, Simpson would also make 41 appearances for Australia after debuting for the Diamonds in 2015, including being vice-captain at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.
Netball Queensland CEO Kate Davies was delighted to welcome Simpson into her new role – a natural extension of the legacy she created within the Firebirds during her playing days.
“Gabi made her mark creating inclusive spaces for athletes and staff as a player, something that Netball Queensland and the Queensland Firebirds is better for,” Davies said.
“The Diamond Spirit program has always been close to Gabi’s heart and I know it will be a great honour for her to hold this role but it’s also a massive win for the program to have such an intelligent, dedicated and much-loved person providing her backing and support.”
The announcement of Simpson’s role is just one of many highlights planned for Saturday’s game, ahead of NAIDOC week celebrations beginning on Sunday, July 7.
The Firebirds and Lightning will not only be wearing their distinctive First Nations dresses for the derby but Sunday’s pre-game will be a celebration of First Nations culture as well as a chance to acknowledge those Indigenous athletes who have represented the Firebirds club.
