Guard brings experience to Miners

A BALLARAT Miners stalwart will play her sixteenth season with the club from next month.

A 181-centimetre-tall guard, Kristy Rinaldi has re-signed with the women’s team ahead of the NBL1 South season’s first round on Saturday, 1 April

“When I started playing for the Lady Miners, you don’t really think of how many games you’re going to play, you’re just excited to be part of it,” she said.

“I’ve played with great players over the years and have seen players develop, thrive, and grow.

“I’m excited for this season with a local coach, some great imports, plus our younger players, along with Abbey Wehrung returning home. This will make our goal of making finals a real reality.

“I’m incredibly grateful to have a supportive partner and family that is making this year possible, and it’s a dream come true to have my daughter watch on. I know I will treasure these moments in the future.”

Ballarat Miners women’s head coach Rob Baker said Rinaldi is a professional who offers experienced leadership to the team.

“[She] has looked after her body in a way to ensure that after 330 games, she is still a necessary contributor on the court,” he said.

The team is enriched by the presence of Rinaldi, said Ballarat Miners elite teams committee member Lynly Doherty.

“The leadership and experience that Kristy brings to our program is invaluable,” Doherty said. “She sets the tone and we are grateful to have Kristy a part of the program for another year.”

In other recent announcements for the Miners’ women’s squad 187-centimetre-tall forward Molly Mathews has also signed with the club.

Alongside state, national and NBL1 level experience, Mathews has a 114-game junior history with the club.

“I’m really looking forward to this year, it is exciting to be back and enjoying basketball again,” she said.