Kiri Wills is set to become just the second New Zealander to coach in Australia’s Suncorp Super Netball competition, taking the helm of the Queensland Firebirds next year. Wills will leave her position as head coach of the Stars in the ANZ Premiership after seven seasons, having secured a two-year deal with the Firebirds.

The first New Zealander to coach in what is considered the world’s best netball league was Dame Noeline Taurua, who led the Sunshine Coast Lightning to two Super Netball titles in 2017 and 2018. Wills, who joined the Stars in 2018 and guided them to three grand final appearances, expressed her fondness for her time with the team.

“It’s been a labor of love, coaching some very important players throughout my career who have been with the Stars and trusted me with their careers,” Wills said. “I appreciate both the players who have always stuck with me and those who have come back after leaving.”

Stars general manager Jane Bennett commended Wills for the culture she fostered within the team. “When I joined the Stars last year, it was clear there was something special about the Stars’ culture, and Kiri was a major contributor to that,” Bennett said. “This season was challenging, but the team’s resilience and performance were something to be proud of.”

Wills sees this new role as an opportunity to grow as a coach and expand her horizons in a different competition. “I can’t wait to get over there and immerse myself in it. Watching the SSN from New Zealand, I always wondered what it would be like to coach a team like the Firebirds in front of their crowds. Now, I get that opportunity, which is really exciting,” she said.

The Firebirds were the most successful team during the ANZ Championship era, with five grand final appearances and three premierships in 2011, 2015, and 2016. However, the team has struggled in recent years, even parting ways with coach Bec Bulley mid-season.

Wills will relocate to Brisbane with her children, marking a new chapter for both her family and her career.