#WNBL20 Heads to Ballarat

Robyn Maher, Allison Cook and Kellie Abrams are names synonymous with the Chemist Warehouse WNBL and all share a common thread, they were born and bred in Ballarat.

The regional Victorian town has punched above its weight producing an array of athletes who have gone on to achieve amazing feats on sporting arenas all over the world.

Tonight, the WNBL takes centre stage in Ballarat with the Bendigo Spirit hosting the UC Capitals at the redeveloped Ballarat Sports Events Centre.

And that Ballarat flavour will be strong with exports Kasey Burton, Maher’s niece, and Abigail Wehrung part of the Spirit team.

Maher, who played in an incredible 13 Grand Finals for 10 championships over an illustrious career with the Nunawading Spectres, Hobart Islanders, Perth Breakers and Sydney, says it’s exciting to have a WNBL game played her old stomping ground.

“It’s great for Ballarat. I’m glad they’ve got a stadium worthy of having WNBL played there, it’s fantastic for Ballarat and regional Victoria,’’ she said.

“What Bendigo is doing is great, taking a home game to another regional city and it might show Ballarat they could maybe get a team together.

“I’m very proud of my association with Ballarat. I’ve been able to see a lot of their SEABL/NBL1 games too. You can’t forget where you come from.”

The WNBL honours Maher each year by awarding the Robyn Maher Defensive Player of the Year award.

Tip-off tonight is at 7pm (local time).

Tickets https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=564208&

Livestream http://wnbl.basketball/bendigo/livestream/