Melbourne Vixens squad member, Lara Dunkley has been elevated to the team of 10, replacing Tayla Honey who ruptured her Achilles in February.
Dunkley, who captained Victorian Fury last year, has been a part of the Vixens squad since 2018 and took to the court over the weekend in Suncorp Super Netball’s #TeamGirls Cup.
Dunkley said that while it’s not an ideal circumstance, she is grateful for the opportunity.
“I’m shattered for Tayla and obviously I’d love for this to have been under nicer circumstances, but to be given this opportunity, I’m definitely honoured,” said Dunkley.
“Being my second year as a training partner and being a part of this elite environment has really guided me in what’s expected not just on the court.
“Getting to step out onto court over the weekend was such a thrill and being able to spend more time with the team and have that support around me really helped me settle and be able to play my role.”
Vixens head coach, Simone McKinnis said she is excited to see Lara step up.
“Lara’s development over the last year as a squad member has been very impressive, and it was great to see her put all her learnings out on court with the team over the weekend,” said McKinnis.
“Both Lara and Tayla are great examples of what the training partner program is about – developing the up and coming talent within the elite environment to allow a smooth transition when the opportunity presents itself.
“Obviously as a team, we are disappointed for Tayla who had put in such a great effort during pre-season training, but she’s showing great progress and will continue to work with our medical and strength and conditioning team to ensure the right recovery will see her back on court.”
