A change in works commitments means Claudia is unable to serve as a full-time coach throughout the season with the club poised to commence their search for a replacement immediately.
Having served as a senior assistant for three seasons, Claudia was appointed head coach in 2016/17 and led the Fire to the semi-finals.
The following season she climbed the summit once again as the Fire defeated the Liz Cambage-led Melbourne Boomers 2-1 in a thrilling Grand Final series on their home floor.
The Fire’s title defence was curtailed last season as six-time WNBL MVP Suzy Batkovic spent the majority of the year sidelined through injury, but with a raft of championship heroes returning and an injection of new stars including Julie Vanloo and Bridget Carlton, the club is optimistic of a bright future.
“It’s a decision that I haven’t taken lightly,” Claudia said.
“The Fire has played such an enormous role in my life – not just my sporting career – and I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunities the club has afforded me as a player and as a coach.
“I’m sure whoever replaces me will do an incredible job, it’s a special club to coach, and I look forward to seeing them contend for another title throughout 2019/20.”
THE HILARIOUS URZLIA CARLSON IS HEADING TO TOWNSVILLE TOMORROW! HEAR HOW SHE GOT CLIFFO & GABI LOL'ING