With an important influence on the team, Ellie Gatti is a key re-signing for the Northern Star Resources Goldfields Giants

The Northern Star Resources Goldfields Giants are proud to announce the re-signing of Ellie Gatti ahead of the 2023 NBL1 West season.

Gatti has been putting in the hard work in the offseason and started preseason training with force, proving her commitment to the women’s team.

Joining in training sessions in 2021 alongside sister Jemma, the 175cm guard initially just wanted to be an extra body for plays and drills.

“I realised how much I missed playing and being a part of the team so even if we didn’t get to the NBL1 I still wanted to play,” she said.

“Fortunately, we did get the promotion in 2022 and I was able to try out, sign a contract and be a part of the inaugural year for the women’s team in NBL 1.”

Head coach Rob Thomson said Gatti’s commitment to the team both on and off the court “is outstanding”.

“Ellie trains her heart out every session and has a very mature outlook and influence on our squad.

“Although she hasn’t had a lot of opportunities yet with playing minutes, she is continually trying to improve her game and we love what she brings to our team.

“We are all very excited that Ellie has signed on again for the 2023 season.”

The guard took a break from basketball after playing for five years in the WABL for Mandurah Magic, focusing on work and moving overseas, but is excited to be playing again.

“I have watched a lot of basketball and understand the game so even in the times I didn’t play, I still learnt the game and it’s helped me make a comeback,” she said.

“Where skills lack, I am able to fall back on my smarts, which is important in a young team.

“I have also been doing work with Jemma and Aimee (Borchet) outside of training, furthering my skills trying to earn some court time.”

Gatti has high hopes for the team to make the top eight this coming season.

“We were so close last year but were unfortunate that three of our starting five were injured, however, I think our bench players stood up for the occasion and smashed it.

“We could have just given up, but we didn’t, and I am so proud of us and cannot wait to have that same energy this season with hopefully no injuries.”

Gatti is training alongside her teammates already in town as the countdown starts for the season tip-off on April 1.