Whittle eyes early return

August 31, 2017 | Townsville Fire news

JCU Townsville Fire recruit Marena Whittle is eyeing off an early return to the court ahead of her debut WNBL season.

Having signed with the Fire earlier this year, the 23-year-old, who was recently selected in the SEABL All*Star Five Team, injured her knee playing for Nunawading, sparking fears that she may face an extended period on the sidelines.

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But with her rehabilitation program in full swing, Whittle said she was hoping to be back on the court inside the first month of the season and adding to the Fire’s championship ambitions.

“At first we thought it would be really serious, but then after getting some scans it turned out that it wasn’t that serious,” Whittle said.

“We just got it cleaned up, got some rehab and just started working on the muscles around it.

“Personally I want to be ready for Round 1, but just given the rest I don’t think that’s likely.

“But I’m very confident I’ll be back at least during the first couple of games.”

Prior to injuring her knee, Whittle was enjoying a breakout SEABL season for the Spectres, averaging 16.5 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists.

The Fire commence their pre-season campaign on Saturday before the Wilmar Sugar Burdekin Blitz against Perth on September 22 and 23.

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