Sharpshooter returns to Venom for WNBL27

The Geelong Venom announced on Friday that forward Mackenzie Clinch Hoycard will return to the club for the WNBL27 season, pending League approval.

Clinch Hoycard, who has penned a one-year deal for the 2026-27 campaign, made an immediate impact on her arrival at Geelong last season, having come across from the Perth Lynx.

The 27-year-old’s ability to stretch defences from the perimeter, combined with a physical presence on the glass, made her a consistent threat and a player who created opportunities for those around her.

Clinch Hoycard said that staying in Geelong was an easy decision.

“Last season gave me a lot,” Clinch Hoycard said.

“I grew as a player, and I feel like I left some unfinished business here.

“I'm in really good shape, and excited by what Cheryl is building.

“The Geelong community is absolutely unreal, and I can’t wait to be back.”

New head coach Cheryl Chambers said that Clinch Hoycard is a player who makes things happen.

“What stood out to me about her last season wasn't just her shooting, it was her energy and her willingness to do whatever the team needed,” Chambers said.

“She keeps defences honest from the moment she steps on the floor, and those numbers she’s putting up at Warwick tell you she hasn't taken her foot off the gas.

“I'm really looking forward to working with her and seeing what she brings to the system we’re building here.”

Clinch Hoycard, who is averaging 13.38 points, 7.75 rebounds, 3.38 assists and 2.75 three-pointers per game with Warwick in NBL1 West, joins a Venom roster also featuring Maddy Rocci, Bec Cole, Alex Sharp, Lilly Rotunno and Dakota Crichton.