Tara Murray
A couple of City West Falcons rising stars and a Maribyrnong Sports Academy gun have been named in the Melbourne Vixens Academy for next year.
The Falcons announced that 13 athletes had been invited to be part of the Vixens academy, which gives them the opportunity to be immersed in the Vixens high performance training environment.
The Academy enables players in the Victorian netball pathway to experience what it takes to become an elite netballer, with sessions focusing on individual skill development, creating connections with the Vixens group and exposure to the culture of the Vixens.
Charli Nicol and Mikaela Minns, who played key roles in the City West Falcons under-19 premiership have been named in the academy. Minns, who is from the Altona Netball Association, was named in the under-17 state team earlier this year, while Nicol was named in the under-19 state team.
Point Cook’s Charlotte Morey, who goes to school at the Maribyrnong Sports Academy, is also in the squad.
Academy members will have access to Vixens players both on and off court, and the brains trust of the club including head coach Simone McKinnis and assistant coach Di Honey.
Susan Meaney will continue to spearhead the Academy in 2023 as head coach, with the Melbourne Vixens 2022 specialist coach eager to impart her knowledge on the next crop of potential Vixens.
“It’s a privilege to be involved in the Vixens Academy program, to have the opportunity to work with our up-and-coming talent so they can be exposed to a Vixens high performance training environment,” she said.
“You’ve got the likes of head coach Simone McKinnis and assistant coach Di Honey who have such a wealth of experience together and success with their athletes, combined with Vixens players coming in and taking some of the sessions.
“They’re learning from them first-hand, not only their on-court experience but how to carry themselves as high performance athletes, how to manage themselves as athletes and people. It’s an incredible opportunity for these young athletes.”
