Coffey signs on with the Neers
sean.teuma@thechronicle.com.au
BASKETBALL: After uncertainty over their future towards the back end of last year, the Toowoomba Mountaineers women have officially begun their recruitment for the inaugural NBL1 North season.
The side has added American guard Sydney Coffey as their first import, as they look to build a competitive roster.
Born in Minnesota, Coffey brings a highly-credentialed high school and college background to Toowoomba.
Studying at Hopkins High School, Coffey won back-toback championships in 2011 and 2012, taking out MVP honours in the former.
Sydney and sister Nia made a big impression at the school, with Nia going on to play for the Adelaide Lightning in the WNBL and the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream.
That translated to her time at Marist College where as captain in 2015/16 she was able to secure All MAAC first team honours, All MET selection, secure the college’s point scoring record (38 points) and finish fourth on all-time points.
This surge led her to Australia, where keen scouts in the Big V swooped on the opportunity to pick up Coffey at Ringwood.
In her first professional experience with the Hawks, she averaged more than 17 points per game on close to 40 per cent shooting from beyond the arc, as well as demonstrating an ability to get to the basket, leading the league in free throw attempts and makes.
She then went on to play in Finland where she captained
Vimpelin Veto, averaging 15 points and three assists.
Mountaineers operations director John Gouldson said the club was thrilled to have someone with the presence of Coffey.
“We are absolutely excited about Sydney,” Gouldson said.
“Her track record is one of leadership and helping teams achieve their goals.
“I think she’ll have a positive leadership role within the team.
“It’s not often you get a sixfoot guard in the women’s ranks.
“With her along with the local girls and another import, we're looking to have a more competitive team, and Sydney’s leadership will be a key to that.”
Coffey is expected to arrive in Toowoomba in early April before the start of the season later that month.