URGENT UPDATE: Whittlesea netball star Tara Watson is set to spend significant time on the sidelines following a serious knee injury. The Melbourne Vixens confirmed that Watson has sustained a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while competing for the Australian pathways team during a recent international tour in Tonga.
This injury comes just as the 20-year-old was elevated to the Vixens’ eleventh player for the 2025 season, a role she earned after her impressive debut in the club’s thrilling preliminary final comeback against the NSW Swifts. Watson, known for her versatility across all three midcourt positions, has been a rising star, consistently selected in state and national squads since 2021.
In a statement, Netball Victoria’s high performance and pathways general manager, Sharelle McMahon, expressed deep disappointment:
“It’s incredibly disappointing news for Tara, who made such an impression in her first season in our Vixens environment this year. Tara’s a valued member of our team and has a bright future ahead of her – we’ll wrap our arms around her and support her every step of the way with her recovery.”
Watson’s injury marks a significant setback for both her and the Vixens, who have built a strong support network around her. McMahon added,
“We’re proud to have a world-class medical team and high performance program at the Vixens, so we know Tara’s in the best hands as she begins her recovery.”
As Watson embarks on her rehabilitation journey, the immediate focus will be on her recovery timeline and the impact on the Vixens’ upcoming season. Fans and teammates alike are rallying around her, eager to see her back on the court as soon as possible.
Stay tuned for updates on Tara Watson’s recovery and how the Vixens plan to adjust their roster in her absence. This developing story highlights not just the challenges athletes face but also the resilience and support systems that define sports communities.
