The Queensland Firebirds are proud to announce Gabi Simpson and Gretel Bueta as the Club’s leaders for the 2020 Suncorp Super Netball season.
Simpson will captain the team for a fourth consecutive year, having succeeded Laura Geitz for the inaugural Suncorp Super Netball campaign in 2017, while Bueta has been elevated to the role of Vice-Captain for the first time.
Simpson expressed her pride in the opportunity to lead the team for another season.
“I’m just as honoured to captain this brilliant club now as what I was when I was first appointed four years ago, as each year I’ve had the opportunity to learn and grow alongside our core group of players,” Simpson said.
“Someone who I’ve seen absolutely flourish across that time is Grets - the experience, energy and care she brings has a huge impact on our group and will be so important throughout this unusual season.”
“I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can deliver across this season.”
Despite not taking the court in 2020 as she prepares for the birth of her first child, Bueta reinforced her commitment to her teammates, saying she was honoured to lead the group.
“I’m humbled to be chosen by my teammates to lead our group and join a long list of outstanding Firebirds who have acted in the role before me,” Bueta said.
“While I might not be on the court this year I am absolutely committed to the success of this group and doing whatever I can to contribute to that goal, so I’m looking forward to working with Gabi to bring the best out in our team.”
Queensland Firebirds Head Coach Roselee Jencke said Simpson and Bueta’s leadership would be critical across an unprecedented season.
“Both Gabi and Gretel have reached the absolute pinnacle of our game and delivered on the biggest stages, so their professionalism and experience are invaluable assets for our club,” Jencke said.
“They are natural leaders who not only set a standard for their teammates but encourage and empower them to both meet it and exceed it.”
“I’m excited by the opportunity to have Gabi on court, as well as Gretel’s perspective from beside me on the bench, which I firmly believe will be a unique advantage for our team this season.”
The Queensland Firebirds open their 2020 Suncorp Super Netball season against the Sunshine Coast Lightning in the ‘Battle of the Bruce’ next Saturday August 1 at Nissan Arena.
For more information about how you can pledge your support and join our purple family in 2020, click here.
