Bendigo announces Geelong shift for WNBL clash

THE WNBL is on its way to Geelong following the Bendigo Spirit’s announcement it will host fellow league side Southside Flyers at Geelong Arena on February 11.

To reinforce road safety awareness throughout the Barwon South West region, the Spirit’s match in Geelong arises out of a partnership between the Bendigo-based basketball club, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and the City of Greater Geelong.

Local fans will also get the opportunity to cheer on Opals legend Lauren Jackson.

Spirit co-captain Kelly Wilson said the team was looking forward to representing all of regional Victoria in Geelong for the once-off clash.

“We as players understand the influence we can have not only in Bendigo but right throughout regional Victoria,” Wilson said.

“We are really looking forward to connecting with the Geelong community and promoting road safety awareness alongside the TAC.

“They have such an important message, and we take our responsibility very seriously to do everything possible to help deliver it.”

Fatalities on roads in the Barwon South West region increased last year, from 24 lives lost in 2021, to 27 in 2022. 12 lives have already been lost across regional Victoria already this year.

Chair of the council’s Geelong Major Events portfolio, Cr Ron Nelson, said he was excited for the city to host the Spirit.

“Geelong has a thriving sports community, and we look forward to welcoming the Bendigo Spirit to play here.

“The match will be a great opportunity for our passionate basketball community to see some of the best female basketballers in action, while promoting a very important road safety message.”

Leading up to the February 11 match, Spirit players will be conducting basketball clinics around Geelong, spreading the message of young people in road safety.

Within the Southside Flyers roster are Geelong Supercats Sara Blicavs and Aimie Rocci.