Vixens midcourter set for Grand Final return

Mundy has been sidelined with a stress-related foot injury since Round 11, watching her side mount a finals campaign that has seen them defeat the Adelaide Thunderbirds and NSW Swifts in back-to-back elimination finals, earning a place in Saturday night’s Grand Final from fourth position on the ladder.

The Vixens’ eleventh player Tara Watson, who has joined the game day team since Round 11 and made her SSN debut during Sunday’s preliminary final, will make way for Mundy’s return.

Watson took the court in wing attack during the second quarter of the thrilling comeback win, impressing with her composure and dynamic movement despite the pressure of the occasion.

“We knew Hannah’s recovery would extend towards the end of the season, but were hopeful we’d see her out on court again and we’re thrilled to welcome her back,” said General Manager, High Performance & Pathways Sharelle McMahon.

“It’s testament to our medical team’s skill and expertise, and to Hannah’s professionalism and diligence throughout her rehab process, that she’ll be out there on Saturday night.”

Head coach Simone McKinnis noted the important role athletes like Zara Walters and Watson have played in Mundy’s absence.

“We’re exceptionally proud of the depth in our squad – to see young athletes like Zara step up and not miss a beat, slotting in and absolutely belonging out there with 60-minute performances, and for someone like Tara to make her debut on the big stage and really take it on, is so exciting for the club’s future,” McKinnis said.

“It’s been a fantastic fortnight of netball for us in this finals campaign, but we know we’ve got a big job to do on Saturday night, and Hannah’s a key part of that.

“A home grand final doesn’t come around often, and the whole team feels privileged to have the chance to compete in the biggest game of the year in front of what will be a super crowd at Rod Laver Arena.”

The Vixens will take on minor premiers West Coast Fever in the sold out Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final at 7.30pm AEST on Saturday 2 August, marking the club’s fourth SSN Grand Final appearance in six years.