Rollers begin signing spree with two recruits and three re-signings

The Gold Coast Rollers have signed a host of NBL1 North women's players, re-signing Siarn Woods, Lilly Rotunno and Sarah Ambrose as well as adding Taylor Lee and Angela Beadle. 

Woods' first season with the team saw the Lady Rollers at the bottom of the table at the season's end.

Four years later, the Lady Rollers made the Grand Final of the then-QBL.

A strong determined player who leads by example, look for Woods to continue her drive for the Lady Rollers in the NBL1 this season.

Coach Jackie Brown said: "We are so excited for the return of Siarn.

"Last season she was the recipient of our defensive player of the year award.

"Her ability defensively to lock down key threats whilst offensively her capability of playing point and leading our team, makes her an extremely versatile and valuable player.

"She is an amazing teammate and is extremely coachable."

Starting her career as a Gold Coast junior with a stellar career littered with state championships and selections to state and national programs, Lilly has transitioned to the senior game with her trademark defensive tenacity.

She also gives back to the basketball community by volunteering as a coach to the next generation.

Coach Jackie Brown said: "I am extremely excited for the return of Lilly.

"She has been making a name for herself within the basketball world as a talented Gold Coast junior playing with the maturity of a senior.

"She just keeps getting better and better and will be coming into preseason off the back of an Australian Camp ready to further grow and and develope her game.

"Her speed and defensive tenacity, makes her not only hard to guard but hard to play against.

"She is such a sponge when it comes to learning, her work ethic and desire to be the best version of herself both on and off the court is inspiring.

"Lil is a leader in her own right that commands respect from any opposition.

"Her journey is only just beginning and I expect to see her up amongst the best in the near future if she continues to grow and develop.

"She has won the hearts of many and will continue to do so next season as she will plays a dominant role for the Lady Rollers in 2022."

Ambrose has been a key factor in the Lady Rollers' success over the past three years.

A defensive presence who puts the team first always, Ambrose is an active member of the Gold Coast Basketball community, coaching representative teams, assisting in their QSL1 program and mentoring those around her.

Coach Brown said: "I am excited to have Sarah return to us.

"As team captain last season, Sarah leads by example both on and off the court.

"Her athleticism, and tenacious defensive efforts have seen her shut down much taller opponents on many occasions.

"No challenge is too tough for her and her coachability and devotion to her teammates while being the best she can be is a very admirable quality that all coaches search for, I am so fortunateI have that in Sarah."

Lee formerly played for the Casey Cavaliers and Frankston in NBL1 South and is now relocating to the Gold Coast with her partner for new beginnings.

Coach Brown said: "We are extremely excited to have Taylor join our team, she is a very talented athlete who has has made a name for herself throughout NBL1 South.

"Her athleticism, ability to score and lead from the front will compliment our talented line-up.

"Her drive and love of the game shows in the way she plays and to top it off she is a great person who will fit the culture both on and off the court that we are recreating."

Lee also has a very established coaching career, as a former Vic Metro and Rowville Head Coach among other teams.

At 6'4", a former SEABL MVP in Victoria, Beadle brings in a strong career that saw her play in Poland, Turkey, Belgium and Romania.

The Lady Rollers have been looking for a dominant centre and will look for Beadle to provide a presence inside and outside of the paint.

Coach Brown is beyond excited and said: "We are extremely pumped to welcome Texas native Angela Beadle to our Rollers line up.

"At 6'4 "Ange is a true centre who can score in the paint and pop to knock down the three.

"Her athleticism and ability to play with physicality around the rim will bring another dynamic to the already talented and versatile group.

"Ange brings with her loads of international experience.

"She is an excellent person and has the work ethic, drive and will to win.

"We are thrilled to have her as part of our program and I know she will thrive within our Rollers culture and of course the Gold Coast will make her feel welcome."

View the 2022 NBL1 roster tracker here.