WA Netball Legend Susan Fuhrmann Calls Time on Career

Published On: 4 February 2013

Susan Fuhrmann lifting the world championship trophy - one of many highlights throughout her successful career

West Coast Fever Vice-Captain Susan Fuhrmann has announced her retirement, bringing to a close one of the most successful and decorated Netball careers in the history of the sport in Western Australia.

Since her early days at Leschenault Netball Association, Susan has impressed with her defensive prowess and incredible stature – leading to her selection in multiple WA State Teams, the Australian Institute of Sport, and ultimately the Australian Diamonds and Perth Orioles/West Coast Fever.

As a long term scholarship holder with the Western Australian Institute of Sport, Susan made her International debut at the 2006 Commonwealth Games, and subsequently has earned a total of 33 appearances in the green and gold, making her the most capped Western Australian in netball history.

Following a glittering career with the Diamonds, Susan has won two Commonwealth Games Silver medals, as well as her historic Gold medal from the 2011 World Championship in Singapore.

Susan, whose career will be celebrated at a special presentation at the upcoming President’s 12 match at Challenge Stadium later this month, has long been regarded as one of the strongest role models the sport has produced in Western Australia.

In addition to her commitments playing for the Orioles and Fever since 2007, the 6ft 5 defender has fulfilled ambassador roles for both the ANZ Championship and Alcohol. Think Again, and has recently graduated from Curtin University with a Bachelor of Pharmacy.

Looking back at her career, ‘Fuhrms’ said she feels both nostalgic and humbled by the support she has received,

“It has been absolutely incredible to line up for the Fever in front of such an amazing Perth crowd.

I feel like I’ve been on an amazing journey, and am extremely thankful for the experiences that I have been lucky enough to have.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my coaches, team mates and of course the fans, for their friendship, support and faith throughout my career.”

Since selecting her for her first Diamonds team in 2006, Fever coach Norma Plummer has long been impressed with Susan’s attitude and work ethic both on and off the court,

“It has been a privilege to coach Susie, in one guise or another, for the last 7 years” said Plummer.

“She is the backbone of every team she has played for, and I know I will always enjoy looking back on her incredible battles with Van Dyk!”

Netball WA will be encouraging all past, present and future netball supporters to come along and join them in officially celebrating Susan’s career at the 2013 President’s 12 game on Sunday 17th February. The game starts at 12.20pm, with doors opening at 11.15am. Members are able to collect their 2013 Fever Membership packs at the game – for more information visit www.westcoastfever.com.au.

– Netball WA