The challenge of Big V basketball is about to begin for Wallan Panthers.
For the first time the Panthers will field three sides in the Big V competition in a huge development for the club.
Panthers’ women’s coach Warren Taylor said despite finalising the team in recent weeks, his side was raring to go.
Much of the side spent the offseason playing for the Panthers in the Country Basketball League’s north east competition.
The Panthers were knocked out in the semi finals by eventual winners, Bendigo Braves.
“They are a good group and I think we have the balance and the depth to be competitive in our first season,” he said.
“The new faces who have come on for Big V have gelled in with the group really well and have brought a completely new level of intensity and effort to our CBL group.”
Despite fielding a Big V side for the first time, the team will have plenty of players with experience at that level.
Jacinta Scott, a 300 Big V game veteran, and her sister Sarah Scott both played in championships with Hume City Broncos.
The club has added Sarah Mellington from North East Bushrangers with Taylor saying she adds an extra dimension at both ends of the court.
A few former Big V players will make a return to that level, include Jayda Hunter, who has overcome a knee scare, and Gemma Jackson, who won the Panthers CBL best and fairest award, among them.
Another player returning to the Big V is former Craigieburn star Tracy Tuesley. The Panthers first game will be a special one for her.
“Tracy looks to have conquered some injury issues in time for her 250th Big V game in Round 1 which is a great achievement,” Taylor said.
“Tracy has been a stalwart of the league for many years and to reach this milestone in her first game leading out her Panthers will be a special moment for her and the club.”
Despite last minute additions to the team, Taylor said they were ready to go Saturday night against Mornington.
“Our three pre season wins have shown good signs and I am confident we are ready to tackle Mornington to open our first Big V season with a win.
“We know we will have to work hard for any win, but we also know nothing worth having, doesn’t come without hard work”.
