Sunshine Coast Lightning has announced Reilley Batcheldor will make her return to Suncorp Super Netball in 2024.
The young shooter suffered a devastating injury blow at the end of her rookie season in 2022, rupturing her ACL for the second time which would see her miss the entire 2023 season.
Standing at 187cm, Batcheldor had a breakout season in 2022, impressing fans with her cool and calm demeanour on court, and most notably her ability to sink super shots.
Lightning Head Coach Belinda Reynolds said it’s a special moment to welcome Batcheldor to the Lighting roster.
“We are thrilled to welcome Roo [Reilley] back into the Lightning outfit after taking a year off to rehab her knee. I’ve seen the hard work she’s put in to reach this point and it’s heartwarming to see it pay off,” she said.
“While still only young, Roo plays very smart netball and is cool, calm and collected in high-pressure situations. Her ability to score super shots is also so important in the SSN and she brings an extra headache for the competition’s defenders to think about.”
Batcheldor said she’s excited to get back out on court and work with Belinda properly for the first time.
“Lightning and the Sunshine Coast is home for me and I couldn’t imagine playing anywhere else. This Club and the community created here is something truly special and something that every player wants to be part of. I am also so grateful for how supported I’ve been during my rehab and can’t wait to return the favour on court in 2024,” she said.
“Finding out I had a contract for 2024 was a huge relief for me. With not playing in 2023 due to injury I was anxious about receiving a contract and felt I hadn’t had the opportunity to prove myself. I am incredibly grateful for everything the Club has given me and the opportunity to return in 2024.
“In 2024, I’m looking forward to bringing a Suncorp Super Netball Premiership home to the Sunshine Coast… but also getting back out on court and showcasing what I’ve been building towards for the past 12+ months. I’m also looking forward to working with Belinda for the first time — experiencing her coaching style and executing her formidable game plan.”
- Mahalia Cassidy
- Ava Black
- Liz Watson
- Leesa Mi Mi
- Steph Fretwell
- Cara Koenen
- Reilley Batcheldor
