Venom add Australian Opal to exciting core

The Geelong Venom announced on Tuesday the commitment of Maddy Rocci for the WNBL27 season, subject to League review and approval.

Rocci arrives at the Venom with an outstanding pedigree, having won back-to-back WNBL championships with the Southside Melbourne Flyers - both under the guidance of new Geelong head coach Cheryl Chambers.

The reunion sees Rocci link up once again with fellow recruit Bec Cole.

Venom head coach Cheryl Chambers said that Rocci is exactly the type of player and person Geelong was seeking.

“I know what she's capable of - I’ve watched her win championships, and I’ve seen first-hand the work she puts in behind the scenes to get there,” Chambers said.

“As a point guard, she controls the game in a way that makes everyone around her better.

“Her vision, her ability to get into the paint and create.

“Maddy’s experience at the highest levels - including her recent stint with the Tempo - means she arrives here ready to lead from day one.

“We’re building something very exciting here in Geelong, and having Maddy at the helm of it is a very significant statement of intent. ”

A multiple-time Australian Opals representative, Rocci has most recently returned from a training camp contract with the Toronto Tempo in the WNBA, working under Opals head coach Sandy Brondello.

Currently in dynamic form with the Keilor Thunder in the NBL1 South, Rocci is averaging 24.33 points, 7.33 assists and 6.67 rebounds per game - numbers that confirm she is approaching the new WNBL season at the peak of her powers.

Rocci’s most recent WNBL campaign with Southside was equally impressive, averaging 16.04 points, 6.96 assists, 4 rebounds and 1.80 steals per game as she helped steer the Flyers to a finals berth.

Rocci and Cole are joined on the Venom roster by Alex Sharp and recently re-signed Lilly Rotunno.