Pre-season signs have been positive … now the Sunbury Jets are ready to take to the court in Big V women’s division 1.
It has been a big off-season for the team, with the arrival of New Zealand women’s coach Kennedy Kereama and several signings to strengthen the side.
“For me, it’s been good with the new group,” coach Kereama said last week.
“It’s been about trying to change the direction of the club. They have been down the bottom of the ladder the last few years.
“We have a new coach [himself] and want to implement a new culture and new systems.”
Despite significant changes to the Jets’ list, Kereama says the transition has been smooth.
“The local girls have been really welcoming,” he said. “They all want to learn, which is important in reshaping the program, and they’re soaking it all up. Everyone has shown glimpses and they’re all unique in their own way.
“The girls need role models who can show them what they can do. We’ve now got players who have played in the WNBL and are semi- professional players who can be that.”
Kereama says he expects players already at the club to play big roles this season.
“I’ve been really happy with Kayla Theodore,” he said. “We played Diamond Valley [a state championship side] and beat them by four points and she made some really good plays, as did everyone else.
“Naomi Stevens, who has been playing mostly youth league, has the potential to play a good role and Genevieve McCorkell has spent most of the pre-season injured but is looking at a big role.”
The Jets have also announced the signing of Chelsea Burns, who has been training with them for about two months. She will be the Jets’ most experienced player, having played WNBL, represented Australia at the World Uni Games, captained Victoria at state level and played SEABL for 10 years.
“Chelsea was chased by other clubs, including SEABL clubs,” Kereama said. “We’re very lucky to have her and she keeps me honest as a coach.
“Chelsea brings experience to the group and the players have voted her as captain. She’s earned their trust in a short period of time.”
Leanne Urbon was voted vice-captain but will miss the season after hurting her knee. She will still play a big role off court and on the bench.
The Jets kick off their season at home against Geelong on Saturday night.
“Our goal is to win the division 1 competition this season while building a program that can then go on to win at Big V championship level,” Kereama said.
“I’m confident that with our recruitment, local retention and pre-season training we’re on track.”
