QUEENSLAND Firebirds have secured the first official signing from an opposition Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) club for the 2020 season, securing the services of Melbourne Vixens’ goaler Ine-Mari Venter for 2020. The signing meant the Firebirds have secured their line-up for 2020, investing in some young local talent while adding Venter into the mix.
After spending a season with the Vixens, South African goaler Venter is set to join the Firebirds assisting Diamond, Gretel Tippett and Romelda Aiken. Venter is no stranger to the big stage having played for the SPAR Proteas renowned for her timing across the court and ability to hold her own, while accuracy also does not seem to be a problem for the young up and coming shooter. Venter can switch between goal attack and goal shooter providing an element of versatility for the side.
Defensively the Firebirds have also lured another Victorian with Rudi Ellis making her way north. At 191cm the goal keeper knows what success is having played in and won the Australia National League grand final with the Victorian Fury in 2018. She has also been a training partner with the NSW Swifts and Melbourne Vixens making her a handy inclusion for Queensland. Although still young her experience, height and general netball know how will pay dividends paired with the likes of Tara Hinchliffe and Kim Jenner.
After making her debut late in the season, Macy Gardner has secured a spot in the side credit to her speed, timing and craftiness on the circle edge. Speedster, Jemma Mi Mi has resigned to the club after a stellar 2019 season with her dynamic movement and quick hands into the circle a key feature of her game. To round out the midcourt, a replacement player will be named in the coming weeks with Mahalia Cassidy both still contracted to the club and recovering from her second ACL injury.
Youngster Tippah Dwan will not be with the Firebirds next year after sustaining a foot injury during the 2019 campaign instead she will be playing in the ANL and HART Sapphire Series.
Official 2020 team list:
Gabi Simpson (WD)
Gretel Tippett (GA, GS)
Romelda Aiken (GS,GK)
Tara Hinchliffe (GD,GK)
Kim Jenner (GD,GK)
Mahalia Cassidy (C,WA)
Jemma Mi Mi (WA, C)
Ine-Mari Venter (GS,GA)
Macy Gardner (C,WA)
Rudi Ellis (GK,GD)
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