Garbin takes on WNBL player rep role

A DESIRE to help steer the WNBL towards greater professionalism convinced Townsville Fire youngster Darcee Garbin to accept the role as the Australian Basketball Association’s vice president of the league’s playing group.

Still just 23, the forward/ centre hopes to help the WNBL stamp itself as a major player in Australian women’s sports.

Canberra Capitals veteran Rachel Jarry has been installed as president, replacing the retired Carly Wilson.

“I was the club rep ( when I played) at Perth and it’s something I’m passionate about,” Garbin said.

“I just wanted to make sure someone who is passionate about the league is in that role.

“I guess we’ve had some success introducing the minimum wage ( but) the netballers, cricketers, W- League and women’s AFL have really taken off and basketball’s been left behind a bit.

“It’s exciting with the Fox ( Sports TV) deal now and it’s probably just becoming more professional, working with the girls to see what they want and trying to get that from both the clubs and the league.

“Imagine if we had a league with 80 players on full- time wages, how good we could be and how much more we can get done?”

ABA boss Jacob Holmes praised Garbin for taking on the responsibility so early in her career.

“Darcee is an emerging superstar in the WNBL and it is a testament to her character that she has put her hand up for this role at such a young age,” Holmes said.

“This is an exciting time for basketball players in Australia. The game is growing on the back of outstanding players and important investment.

“This re- emergence will see the ABA become ever more relevant and there are no better people to be at the forefront of this for the WNBL than Rachel and Darcee.”