The Firebirds’ dramatic cull of star shooter makes a strong statement ahead of a busy off-season

The Firebirds have cut ties with a star shooter, with the dramatic move to set the tone of a busy off-season for Queensland. But the axed star has high-profile support to bounce back.

Donnell Wallam has been axed by the Queensland Firebirds in a move that may be the club looking to take control of the narrative when they were unlikely to retain her services anyway.

Contracted just for the 2024 season, Wallam is essentially a free agent and would be a key target for several clubs on the hunt for such a dominant shooter.

But with Netball Australia’s external contracting window not open until August 5, Wallam was unable to openly discuss her future with other clubs.

The Firebirds announcement is essentially an “I broke up with you first” statement.

Along with the news that defender Remi Kamo - who, like Wallam, had only signed a deal for 2024 - won’t be back next season, it gives some insight into the club’s direction for next year.

Donnell Wallam has been cut from the Firebirds. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

It could also hint at the new coach, or at least who has not won the position.

Interim head coach Katie Walker’s very public backing and praise of Wallam during her short tenure suggested she would have walked over glass to have the shooter as part of her team if she had any say in the list.

But in a statement, the Firebirds said their decision on Wallam was based around “game style and strategy”.

“There is no doubt Donnell is a quality player and her Diamonds selection for 2024 supports that,” Netball Queensland and Queensland Firebirds chief executive Kate Davies said.

“This is simply a recruitment decision based on game style and strategy into the future and I know Donnell will continue to shine wherever her future lies.”

Wallam found plenty of support on the other side of the world.

Diamonds coach Stacey Marinkovich spoke highly of Wallam’s potential, and backed the shooting star to bounce back in a big way.

Diamonds coach Stacey Marinkovich has backed Donnell Wallam to bounce back. Picture: Getty Images

“Donnell’s presence on court epitomises the Suncorp Super Netball competition with her flair and energy,” she said.

“She’s not a cookie cutter shooter, she provides an entertainment element to her game which fans have gravitated towards.

“Donnell made her Suncorp Super Netball debut just three seasons ago in 2022. I don’t believe she has reached her ceiling and she’s continued to show incredible variation and growth in her game this year.

“She’s had a strong Suncorp Super Netball season – she’s ranked second in the competition for goals scored and offensive rebounds.

“We can’t wait to see what excitement and flair Donnell can bring the Origin Australian Diamonds 2024-25 squad.

“We have made a commitment to Donnell, like we do with all our Diamonds, to provide the support and resources to ensure she reaches her potential and maximises selection opportunities.”

Wallam’s departure will seriously ignite the Super Netball shooting market.

Already, the NSW Swifts were on the lookout for a shooter to replace Sam Wallace, who was fired during the season after a “behavioural issue”, while evergreen Romelda Aiken-George is off-contract in Adelaide.

It would be unlikely for Romelda Aiken-George to return to Queensland. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

Given her own messy departure from the Firebirds, Aiken-George is unlikely to return to Brisbane.

Davies thanked Wallam and Kamo for their contribution to the club.

Wallam’s efforts in “integrating First Nations culture and rituals into the everyday practices of the Firebirds” were also highlighted, with the club vowing they would endure.

But she leaves on something of a sour note, with club processes also having somehow allowed her to be delivered a hateful and racist letter.

Davies said the club would share announcements on new players from August 5, when the signing window opens.

After the retirement of Kim Ravaillion, the club is seeking at least three new players for next season.

Originally published as The Firebirds’ dramatic cull of star shooter makes a strong statement ahead of a busy off-season