SEVERN Stars chiefs are on the lookout for a new head coach after Sam Bird confirmed she was standing down from the role after three years of service.
The Stars boss has been part of the coaching staff since the franchise came to life in 2016 when she worked alongside then head coach Mo’onia Gerrard as assistant coach in 2016.
When Gerrard left after the 2017 season, Bird took over as head coach and during her time the club progressed from eighth in its first year to sixth place in the last two seasons. She also led Stars to two semi-final places in consecutive years at the British Fast5 All-Stars Championships.
“It has been a pleasure to work with the team from the beginning and through three seasons. In particular I have enjoyed collaborating with the players and staff who have worked together to produce some very exciting and dramatic netball for the club,” she said.
Bird reflected on the excellent form her team has shown, particularly away from home this season, taking victories on the road against then top of the table Manchester Thunder, Strathclyde Sirens, Celtic Dragons, London Pulse and Surrey Storm.
“I am a player centred coach, so I will certainly miss the players I have got to know on a professional and personal level. I wish the club every success in the future,” she added.
Bird has a busy summer ahead of her as head coach for England A who will be playing a number of the top international teams coming to the Netball World Cup, which takes place in the UK in July.
Anita Navin, co-director of Severn Stars, and head of the school of sport and exercise at the University of Gloucestershire, said: “Sam has been integral to making the club what it is today and we wish her every success in the future.”
Stars bosses hope to reveal a new head coach in the coming weeks.