Sunshine Coast Lightning player, Reilley Batcheldor and USC Thunder player, Emma Walters both suffered ruptured ACL’s during the recent ANC competition in Traralgon, Victoria.
This is the second time Batcheldor has ruptured her ACL, sustaining the same injury on the same knee in 2019. She will undergo a knee reconstruction next week and will commence rehabilitation soon after.
Walters, who played for the USC Thunder this year, will also undergo surgery next week and begin the rehab process.
The ANC Lightning team head coach, Chris Voge expressed her sadness for the two young athletes.
“Reilley is a talented and dedicated athlete, and a key member of the Lightning team this year. The injury to Reilley early on in the ANC competition was devastating, but as one the team’s vice captains, she was so positive and encouraging to the group for the remainder of the championships. We will closely support her in all aspects of surgery, rehabilitation and ongoing care,” Chris said.
“Emma’s injury also came as a devastating blow and her performances throughout the week made her a crucial midcourt player for the team. Emma is a talented and tough player who has also expressed her desire to be back in the sport she loves, and we are looking forward to supporting her also through this process.
“The Lightning ANC team and staff were amazing in their support and care for these athletes last week. The tight team and the broader Lightning family has really thrown their support around these two, which I am so proud of.”
The length of the rehabilitation process will depend on the individual athlete and cannot be confirmed at this time.
