Barnett, 21, has signed her first SSN contract two weeks after being named Firebirds Futures MVP after her impressive Super Netball reserves campaign.
A member of the Firebirds Futures squad for the past two seasons, Barnett also captained this year’s team.
The Melbourne-born defender will form an all-Queensland defensive trio for the Firebirds next season alongside Isabelle Shearer and Ruby Bakewell-Doran.
With Tippah Dwan, Macy Gardner and Hulita Veve also locked in for 2025, the Firebirds contracted list features six Queensland pathways products.
“I am excited to be selected for the Queensland Firebirds' 2025 season,” Barnett said.
“I’m eager to learn from Kiri and benefit from her energy, knowledge, and leadership.
“I’m committed to working hard and absorbing as much as possible.
“I’m also incredibly thankful for the chance to work with Ruby, Issy, and all the amazing players on the 2025 team.”
Barnett’s signing makes her the latest player from the ACU Brisbane North Cougars in the HART Sapphire Series to make the jump to SSN level.
Gardner, Bakewell-Doran and Barnett have all come into the Firebirds from the Cougars under the stewardship of Queensland Netball Hall of Fame inductee Liz White OAM.
Firebirds Head Coach Kiri Wills said the contract is a huge opportunity for Barnett.
“Ashlee made the most of this year’s Super Netball reserves program to show her ability against SSN-standard attackers,” Wills said.
“She has shown leadership alongside her ability and can play at either goal defence or goalkeeper, giving us extra options in that defensive third.
“Ash thrives on the physical contest and I’m excited to see the progress she can make next year alongside Ruby and another young defender in Isabelle.”
Barnett’s signing completes the Firebirds’ contracted playing list for the 2025 SSN campaign.
FIREBIRDS 2025 SQUAD
Imogen Allison, Ruby Bakewell-Doran, Ashlee Barnett, Mary Cholhok, Lara Dunkley, Tippah Dwan, Macy Gardner, Emily Moore, Isabelle Shearer, Hulita Veve.
