THE FIRST big news of the 2024 Suncorp Super Netball signing period has dropped, with the Queensland Firebirds securing star Ugandan shooter Mary Cholhok.

Cholhok comes to Brisbane on a multi-year deal from Netball Super League reigning premiers, Loughborough Lightning, where she absolutely dominated in the ring. She shot 975 goals in 2024, which was 208 more than anyone else in the competition.

Cholhok’s signing is the first big announcement of the SSN signing period, which got underway this week.

Cholhok replaces Donnell Wallam, who was not offered a contract for the 2025 season or beyond.

On the announcement, Cholhok said she is “so excited to be joining the Firebirds”.

“It has always been my dream to play in the best league in the world,” she said.

“Every Saturday morning when I wake up I watch highlights of SSN and now it is surreal that I am going to be a part of the league.

“I am so grateful to the Firebirds for this opportunity. I can wait to get started and meet the Firebirds family.”

It turns out new Firebirds’ head coach Kiri Wills had been trying to sign the Ugandan star for years but finally gets her wish.

“I tried for many seasons to lure Mary to New Zealand to join me at the Northern Stars without success,” Wills said.

“So to know Mary will now be joining me at the Firebirds in 2025 is a real thrill and I can’t wait to see what she can do in the SSN.

“Mary’s height is obviously a key asset but she’s developed her game so much in England. Her athleticism makes her difficult for defenders to manage. As a result her accuracy and volume is incredible.

“I just know Mary is going to be a wonderful member of our Purple Family and look forward to welcoming her to Brisbane in a few weeks.”