The Caroline Springs Lakers have made headlines by signing former Melbourne Vixen Rahni Samason for the upcoming 2025 Western Netball League season. This acquisition is regarded as one of the most significant in the league’s history, enhancing the Lakers’ competitive edge and promising to make a substantial impact on the club’s performance.
Samason, who has also showcased her talents in the ANZ Premiership in New Zealand, is well-known for her exceptional shooting skills. The Lakers expressed confidence in her ability to perform under pressure and alter the course of a game, describing her as an invaluable addition to the team. In a statement, Lakers netball coordinator Nadine Oborne emphasized the importance of this signing for the club, stating, “We’ve gone big this year. It’s very exciting.”
In addition to reinforcing their senior team, the Lakers aim to strengthen the connection between their junior and senior programs. Oborne highlighted that Samason’s presence will inspire younger players, creating a pathway for their development. “It’s not only huge for us in seniors and division 1, but juniors will look up to her and see they are at the same club,” she added.
The decision for Samason to join the Lakers was influenced by a family connection and her positive experience during a clinic visit to the club. “She didn’t hesitate,” Oborne noted, indicating that the club’s welcoming atmosphere played a crucial role in her decision-making process. Samason will join a revamped goal circle, alongside the recently signed Charlize Bellette, who made her debut in the SN reserves for the Melbourne Mavericks last season and is now part of the under-19 Victorian squad.
Oborne remarked, “To play with someone in the circle with Rahni’s experience will help her game,” highlighting the potential benefits of this collaboration for Bellette. The Lakers, who had five teams competing in the previous season, saw all but one team reach the finals, with their division 1 squad claiming the minor premiership before narrowly missing out on the grand final.
With a commitment to nurturing talent, Oborne stated that the club focuses on facilitating player development from junior levels to senior competition. She noted, “We’ve got a lot of juniors coming through into seniors as soon as they turn 15.” Among them is Heidi Ete, only 14 years old and already recognized as one of the youngest players in the competition, who received accolades for her performance in her debut season.
As the Lakers enter pre-season preparations, Oborne confirmed that the club is evaluating the possibility of entering five or six teams for the upcoming season. Additionally, they are exploring the option of forming a men’s team in a new division. “It’s a new chapter for Lakers netball,” Oborne stated, revealing that about 15 players have expressed interest in joining the men’s side.
The club recently held an exhibition match featuring their division one and two teams alongside a men’s team, providing a unique opportunity for juniors to observe different playing styles. “It was good for the juniors to see the different styles of men’s and women’s. It’s a lot more aerial and dynamic,” Oborne reflected.
With Samason on board, the Lakers are poised for an exciting season ahead, aiming not only for success on the court but also for fostering a strong community within the club.
