Aussie Opals star Keely Froling has signed to play for Geelong United in its inaugural WNBL season, joining former Melbourne Boomers coach Chris Lucas.
The 28-year-old is currently training in Japan ahead of Australia’s Olympic campaign in Paris, and is a two-time WNBL champion with the Canberra Capitals.
Froling also brings leadership experience to Geelong, having co-captained the Boomers under Lucas, who she said was a key reason she signed on.
“It’s special I think to be a part of that first side,” she said.
“Obviously I enjoyed my time in Melbourne last year with Chris (Lucas), and I think we’ll recruit some really good players and good people.
“I played under Chris last year in Melbourne and many years ago in Townsville.
“I think we have a great relationship and I work well under him, so I’m excited to have another season with Chris and hopefully win a championship for Geelong.”
Lucas said Froling was the first player he contacted after accepting the head coaching role last month, saying it was a ‘no brainer’ to go after her.
“The standards of the program need to be set in the first year and she will lead by example with the bar she sets for herself and her teammates,” he said.
“It really puts us in a great position for our first year.”
