The Queensland Firebirds have announced ex-England international Sara Francis-Bayman as an assistant to new coach Bec Bulley for season 2023.
Bulley is making the move north after serving as Briony Akle’s assistant, and now she’ll be joined by Francis-Bayman for the next two seasons in a massive coup for the club.
But the move signals the end of Clare Ferguson’s (nee McMeniman) ties with the Firebirds as an assistant coach.
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Francis-Bayman, the wife of now retired West Coast Fever championship defender Stacey, is the second English netballer to join the Super Netball coaching ranks in recent days.
Just last week, former England Roses coach Tracey Neville signed on as an assistant to Adelaide Thunderbirds coach Tania Obst.
The Firebirds, who already had one of the most inexperienced rosters heading into 2023, will be without star attacker Gretel Bueta as she has her second baby. So the acquisition of Francis-Bayman’s experience in the coaching ranks is a positive for the Firebirds.
“Joining the Firebirds is an exciting step in my coaching career and I can’t wait to play a part in the rich history of the club,” Francis-Bayman said.
The 37-year-old, who represented England 84 times in her playing career, is a former Superleague coach of the Year in 2018.
She was an assistant during Scotland’s impressive Commonwealth Games showing in July, under coach (and ex-Firebird) Tamsin Greenway.
“I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to secure Sara as our assistant coach for the next two years,” Bulley said.
“A highly regarded international mid-court player known for her hard work and determination, Sara will bring new ideas and a fresh approach to how things are done here at the Firebirds.
“Not only does she boast significant international experience as a player, Sara has had proven success as a coach and possesses an amazing technical and tactical brain.
“Her leadership and understanding of elite level netball will be a huge positive for myself and the entire Firebirds program.”
Francis-Bayman will begin her role with the Firebirds next month.
Ferguson meantime reportedly remains in the running for the vacant Sunshine Coast Lightning head coaching role, after Kylee Byrne left post season 2022.
There’s rumours ex-Silver Fern Temepara George is also in the mix for the Lightning top job.
The club is yet to reveal who will be senior coach for the 2023, despite players expected back for pre-season coming weeks.
