The Queensland Firebirds will be without Gretel Bueta for the 2020 season after the star shooter announced her and husband Niko are expecting their first child in January.
It’s been an incredible year for the Firebirds and Origin Australian Diamonds Goal Attack, who was named the Liz Ellis Diamond at the Australian Netball Awards in November and married in March.
Bueta said she was over the moon when she found out.
“Niko and I are so excited there is a new addition coming to our family and really grateful for the way in which the club has embraced our news,” Bueta said.
“I might not be taking the court this year, but I’ll still be with the girls every step of the way and am excited to mentor the young shooters and be another set of eyes for Rose.”
“It will be a special journey to be with the team throughout the season all while growing a little baby and preparing to add to the Queensland Firebirds fan base.”
Firebirds Head Coach Roselee Jencke expressed her delight for Bueta on the exciting news.
“The Queensland Firebirds is a family club to its very core, and we are thrilled for Gretel and Niko as they embark on this special journey together,” Jencke said.
“While she may not take the court in 2020 Gretel will also remain an incredibly important part of our group, as her leadership and experience will no doubt be an invaluable asset across an unprecedented season.”
“Gretel will have a seat next to me on the bench and continue to have the full support of our club throughout the year before we all welcome baby Bueta with open arms.”
The club confirmed that the date for an announcement on Bueta’s replacement in the team line-up for the 2020 season will be confirmed in the coming days.
