THE Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) season has swung around once again with teams shaping up for an exciting year of netball. Having played through a global pandemic last season, the 2021 campaign will be hoping to restore a bit of normality to the netball world as the eight sides compete for that all-elusive premiership.

Coach: Megan Anderson
Captain: Gabi Simpson
2020 finish: 5th

A much-improved Firebirds outfit graced the court in 2020, stepping up from their 2019 wooden spoon award to take the competition by storm last year and well and truly prove they would not have a repeat performance. Even with the absence of Gretel Bueta all season, the side continuously proved they were capable of doing the unthinkable, testing all the top sides and retaining the mantle of defeating the two eventual grand finalists in premiers Melbourne Vixens and runners up West Coast Fever. Factor in their exciting developing talent, and the Firebirds were a formidable force to be reckoned with each round.

2021 predictions/expectations:

The Firebirds will boast a bolstered midcourt as Kim Ravaillion makes her long-awaited return to the purple dress, while Bueta also rejoins the fold in the goal circle in a huge grab for the Firebirds, and the acquisition of new coach Megan Anderson could change up how they go about their game and set things in motion. Whilst the new-look outfit already appeared to be a huge challenger last season, there is no doubt its returnees plug the holes in the side – if any – whilst still retaining the Firebirds’ slick movement and boosting experience across the court. Romelda Aiken added fresh strings to her bow last season and is sure to step up once more, whilst the retention of former training partner Tippah Dwan adds an extra prong to an already formidable attack line. Factor in the high-power defensive lineup led by Kim Jenner and the consistency of Gabi Simpson, and the side has very little weak spots to speak of. Whilst the Firebirds proved to be a highly agile side last season, expect them to lift a notch this year with the return of their familiar faces, whilst also retaining the services Jemma Mi Mi and Lara Dunkley through the midcourt, with both able to offer different attacking options through the centre.

Key player to watch:

A newcomer to a Firebirds leadership role this year is Tara Hinchliffe, with the incredibly underrated defender stepping up to the challenge and sure to lead from the back. Whilst the plaudits typically go to Jenner and her sometimes heroic efforts in the backline, there is no doubt Hinchliffe’s workrate is what allows Jenner to get the job done so well. Factor in the efforts of Simpson around circle edge and Ravaillion’s defensive mindset and workhorse attitude in centre, and this season is Hinchliffe’s time to shine as the defensive unit steps up a notch around her. A hard worker with great spatial awareness and continuously improving elevation over the shot, Hinchliffe rarely skips a beat.

Team list:

Romelda Aiken
Gretel Bueta
Tara Hinchliffe
Kim Jenner
Jemma Mi Mi
Gabi Simpson
Lara Dunkley
Rudi Ellis
Tippah Dwan
Kim Ravaillion