Melton Thoroughbreds’ return to the Big V women’s competition ramped up on Sunday, as the side took to the court in its first practice match.
The Thoroughbreds haven’t fielded a women’s side in the Big V since 2010 and have been working hard in anticipation of their return in division 2.
Thoroughbreds coach Lauren Olcorn said there had been a lot of hard work put in over the past couple of months.
“We’ve got practice matches lined up for every weekend in February,” she said.
“It’s all been going really well with a team of girls working hard.
“There’s been the extra efforts to get us where we need to be. There’s been extra fitness sessions and we can’t wait to get on the court.”
Olcorn said they would use the practice matches to get an idea of line-ups and positions they could use throughout the season.
The coach, who captained the Thoroughbreds 2008 division 2 championship, said they had established a talented young list with plenty of experience.
Gabby Eaton, Channy Paris-Webb, Natalee Eaton and Carissa Lock, who all previously played for the Thoroughbreds, were among the early signings. They were joined by Emily Attard and Caitlyn Spence, who will make their Big V debuts.
Olcorn said they had more than 25 players attend trials.
“We had good numbers,” she said.
“We were able to secure some experienced girls who had played elsewhere. We’re still quite a young team.
“We’ve got a three to five-year plan put together and we’re on track with that plan.”
Molly Young, who was part of Keilor Thunder’s women’s division 1 grand final side, has joined the team. Jenna and Lauren Conroy have come across to Melton after spending the past two seasons with Coburg Giants.
Rebecca Marshall, who was part of Sunbury Jets’ state championship set-up and youth league 2 women’s championship side, has also come across.
Olcorn said she was excited by the background those four girls provided.
“They’re all 25 and under,” she said. “I’m excited by the experiences and knowledge that they bring and the rookies can learn a lot from them.
“We’re only going to get stronger from there.”
The Thoroughbreds’ next practice match is on Saturday night at Melton Recreation Centre. Entry is free.
The Big V season starts the weekend of March 17.
