NETBALL: Kate Shimmin is rapt to have made the move to Brisbane - and out of harm's way as a defender trying to oppose the might of Firebirds goal shooter Romelda Aiken.

The 24-year-old ex-Adelaide Thunderbird recalled an incident during a game last season when the two-time ANZ Championship MVP left her worse for wear.

"I got my very first black eye from Romelda," Shimmin told News Regional Media ahead of her debut with the Firebirds in Saturday's Super Netball opener in Brisbane.

"She actually split my eye open."

Shimmin, who still sports a scar from the clash, admits she was quick to remind her new teammate when joining the Firebirds late last year.