After a finals appearance in the 2010/11 season it was disappointing for the Spirit to miss out last campaign. The departure of several keep pieces has seen the roster take on a new look that coach Bernie Harrower is hopeful will lead Bendigo back to contention.
Bendigo Spirit
Website: www.bendigospirit.com.au
Home Stadium: Bendigo Basketball Stadium
WNBL Championships: Nil
2011/12 Record: 12-10 6th
Major Player Movement
Ins: Kathleen Scheer (USA), Renae Carmino (Logan Thunder), Chantella Parera (Bulleen Boomers)
Outs: Deanna Smith (West Coast Waves), Tess Madgen (Bulleen Boomers), Lisa Wallbutton (West Coast Waves)
Squad (at Sept 4): Gabrielle Richards, Kelly Wilson, Chantella Perera, Kathleen Scheer, Chelsea Aubry, Jane Chambers, Renae Camino, Kristi Harrower, Madeleine Garrick
Star Player: Kristi Harrower
With the WNBL legend confirming she will play this season the Spirit still have a player capable of making the big plays at the big times during a game. Will be pleased to see the likes of Renae Camino line-up next to her, forming a strong backcourt partnership.
New Face: Renae Camino
Camino has been a quality player in the WNBL for a number of years and her decision to return south to Bendigo was music the ears of coach Bernie Harrower.
The offensive spark offered by the guard will help fill the scoring hole left by the departures of Madgen and Smith.
Keys to Success: There is no denying the loss of Madgen and Smith has hurt the Spirit roster and replacements for that kind of talent don’t come easily. However, in Camino they have a legitimate WNBL star and the retention of forward Gabrielle Richards still gives the team enough quality to mix it with the best.
Prediction: Going to be tough to make the final four this season for the Spirit, making the effort to turn the Bendigo Stadium into a fortress all the more important.
First Five:
v Adelaide (A)
v Bulleen (A)
v Dandenong (A)
v West Coast (H)
v Dandenong (H)
CLICK HERE to download 2012/13 WNBL fixture.
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