The Ballarat Miners women have announced their first signing for the NBL1 South season as Kristy Rinaldi.
Heading into her 15th season and having been a player with the Ballarat Lady Miners, Ballarat Rush and now the Ballarat Miners, Rinaldi sits second on the all-time games played for Ballarat with 309 games.
"This is a really exciting time for the club, a new inclusive name, a new coach and the ability to play a full season in our new stadium, it’s going to be a great year," Rinaldi said.
Rinaldi played 12 games in 2021 averaging nine points and six rebounds per game.
Ballarat Miners Women’s Head Coach David Herbert said: "Kristy has been an amazing player for the Rush and now the Miners program for many years.
"We are hoping to rejuvenate her career and have her make a real impact on the program this year.
"This is our very first signing and a most important one to recognise the hard work, effort and sacrifice Kristy has given the club over many years.
"I would love nothing more than to win a championship for Kristy and that is exactly what we will have our sights set on for Kristy.
"I have admired Kristy’s ability to score from range and across the court for many years and I look forward to coaching her for the very first time."
After an interrupted 2021 season, Rinaldi is ready for the season ahead.
"I am not getting any younger, but I am excited for what David can bring to our program, I know he will put together a great team of good people and I believe we can have some success," she said.
