Dismissed as ‘completely untrue’: Firebirds interim coach resigns following single match, despite player unrest claims being refuted.

Netball Queensland has refuted claims that head coach Bec Bulley of the Queensland Firebirds was dismissed following a player-led rebellion, as the club’s ongoing coaching saga unfolds.

This decision marks yet another chapter in the Firebirds’ turbulent coaching history, with the organisation now under pressure to appoint a new head coach ahead of the impending free agency window.

Bulley found herself relieved of her duties less than halfway through her inaugural four-year contract.

A statement from the club confirmed that her termination was effective immediately.

Netball Queensland’s CEO, Kate Davies, has firmly rejected the narrative of a player uprising, asserting, “I can categorically confirm that the reports of a player mutiny are untrue.”

It had been reported that players from the Firebirds raised concerns with the Australian Netball Players’ Association (ANOA) regarding their dissatisfaction with Bulley’s leadership.

There were suggestions that players might boycott matches unless Netball Queensland addressed the issues, but Davies dismissed these allegations as false.

“Everyone at the club is doing their best to cope with the situation,” she added.

“A mutual decision was reached between the club and Bec Bulley to part ways, and we sincerely thank her for her dedication and effort throughout her time with us,” the club stated.

In her dismissal announcement, Davies expressed that the choice was a difficult one to make.

“Bec has dedicated herself since her appointment in July 2022 to building a positive environment within the club and has successfully created strong connections with our previous champions,” the statement added.

“This achievement is one she should take great pride in.”

“With her passion, experience, and work ethic, I have no doubt she will have a successful future in netball.”

“The timing of her departure aligns with her family’s needs, and our priority is to support her, alongside our staff and player group.”

Since the departure of long-time coach Roselee Jencke in 2020, the Firebirds have had a tumultuous coaching trajectory.

Jencke led the team to three premiership titles in the Super Netball before handing over the reins to Megan Anderson.

Anderson lasted two seasons before exiting the club, struggling to find a winning strategy.

Fans have expressed dissatisfaction with the Firebirds’ performance this season, as the players have not reached the high standards typically expected.

It has been six seasons since the club last reached the finals.

As most of the squad prepares to head into the player market at the season’s end, an update on the coaching situation has been provided.

The Queensland side confirmed that assistant coach Katie Walker will assume the head coach role for the remainder of the 2024 Suncorp Super Netball season, while assistant coach Lauren Brown will be stepping down from her position.

Brown, having only held the top position for a single game following Bulley’s dismissal, now faces a formidable challenge ahead.

After the Firebirds’ 73-61 defeat at the hands of the Mavericks on Sunday, Brown shared that she had a conversation with her close friend Bulley about her dismissal, saying, “It’s certainly not an ideal scenario.”

This announcement comes on the heels of the NSW Swifts declaring that star shooter Sam Wallace has parted ways with the club, where Bulley previously coached.