In her rookie year, Reilley Batcheldor showed she has what it takes to compete with the world’s best netballers, and it was evident after only a few weeks that she had the qualities to secure a contract extension for Sunshine Coast Lightning.
Batcheldor said she didn’t expect to be offered a 2023 contract before the 2022 season had officially begun, but was going to take the opportunity with both hands.
“I couldn’t believe it my initial thoughts were. They hadn’t even seen me play yet in this league. But for me it was more of a reassurance thing for throughout the year and gave me more confidence to just do my thing on the court,” she said.
Kylee Byrne said Batcheldor was an exceptional athlete who has an enormous future in front of her.
“She has had a taste of what the SSN is about and what is needed to perform and is now even more focussed to grow her game and compete at this level,” she said.
“Reilley is that athlete that coaches love to have the opportunity to work with as her determination and commitment drives everything she does. Loved by all team mates as well, she is the ultimate professional and with all of this coupled with a years’ experience, 2023 is going to be a big year for Roo [Reilley].”
Batcheldor reflected on her first season in the Suncorp Super Netball and is excited for what next year will bring.
“Every moment was a pinch me moment, it’s been a dream to be playing at this level. Every young netballer dreams of getting a contract in the SSN and to be living out my dream at this age has been amazing and everything I could wish for,” she said.
“I’ve also made so many new lifelong friends along the way. I still pinch myself every time I get to train and play with the players I was watching on tv a couple years ago.
“I’m so so so excited to play next year in the lightning colours! I’m so keen to keep developing my connection with Cara and Steph and make our shooting circle a nightmare for defenders.”
