The Queensland Firebirds have said goodbye to two key players, as shooter Tippah Dwan and defender Rudi Ellis will both be playing elsewhere in 2022.
After exploding onto the scene during the 2020 season in Gretel Bueta's absence, Dwan spent much of the 2021 season as the third choice shooter at the Firebirds. Her creativity and ability to reliably hit long distance shots will no doubt make this promising young shooter one of the most prized acquisitions this signing period.
Anderson said the club as disappointed to lose the talented goal attack though understood her desire for a bigger role elsewhere.
“Tippah is an amazing talent and one of the most genuine and humble players in the league,” said the Firebirds coach.
“We appreciate her need to gain more opportunities on the court and have no doubt she will continue to impress in 2022. We will miss her and wish her well.”
Dwan said it was a tough decision to leave the club she had called home since 2017, though confirmed her desire for more opportunities and a ‘fresh start’.
“I’d like to thank the Queensland Firebirds for everything they have done for me, I certainly wouldn’t be the person or player that I am today without them,”
“Everyone at the club has made my time enjoyable, especially my teammates and I am going to miss them dearly.”
After two seasons with the Firebirds, the 24-year-old Ellis was impressive in her limited game time as the third defender behind Tara Hinchliffe and Kim Jenner.
“Rudi has been an integral part of the purple family, both on and off the court,” Firebirds coach Megan Anderson said.
“She’s had immense growth over the two seasons with the Firebirds and we know her career will continue to progress in 2022 and beyond.”
Despite being disappointed to be departing Nissan Arena, Ellis said she did so with fond memories of her time as a Firebird.
“I have absolutely loved my past two years at the Firebirds and it’s going to be sad leaving this beautiful group of people,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to the next chapter in my netball journey but will always have a place in my heart for the purple.”
The Queensland Firebirds thank both players for their contribution and wish them all the best for the future.
