Flames tip-off WNBL23 pre-season training

The Sydney Flames’ new era officially tipped off on Wednesday, with the start of their WNBL23 pre-season training.

The Auburn PCYC session was the first-time Shane Heal’s revamped squad, minus imports Hannah Sjervin and Jocelyn Willougby, have hit the court together since the club’s exciting re-brand in September – which excited the second-year coach.

“After watching the girls play in NBL1 and talking during the off-season, we’re all pumped to be back on the court together,” Heal said.

“From us coaches’ perspective, it’s exciting to see how it all comes together, with all the players’ enthusiasm, and set a tone for what is shaping up to be a massive season for the Flames.”

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Wednesday marked the start of the Hoops Capital team’s six-week pre-season, ahead of the WNBL23 tip-off in November.

“During these first few weeks of pre-season, we’ve got to establish who we are and what we do as a group – putting in structures of how we want to play both offensively and defensively,” said the 52-year-old, who’s thrilled with his team’s new home training facility – crediting the club’s vision in establishing the team’s professional on and off the court.

“Part of it is fitness and part of it is keeping people accountable while setting a vision of where we want to get to us a unit.

“Impressively, everyone has fit in really well, considering we only have four players returning from last season, and I’m excited to see how far this group can grow over the next six weeks.”

Looking further ahead, Heal is confident his side has what it takes to secure the club its fifth WNBL title, which is no doubt music to the ears of the Flames faithful

“Fans should expect a young, energetic Flames team, that uses its athleticism to get up and down the court,” he said.

“Like last year, we’re determined to create an identity on the defensive end, because our team is going to take a lot of pride at that end of the court – which will play a huge role in making us the successful team we envision we can be.

“Combine those with selfless basketball and numerous players who can put it in the whole, it’s all shaping up as a really fun year for the Flames.”