By Nick Creely
The Dandenong Rangers have been dealt a bitter blow in their quest to go one better in 2017/18 with co-captain Aimee Clydesdale signing a two-year deal with Adelaide Lightning in the WNBL.
The 23-year-old has been a Dandenong junior for over a decade and also represented Australia at Under-19 level, and played 119 games in the WNBL for the Rangers, averaging 8 points per game across a strong career.
And in 2016/17 Clydesdale shone and led the Rangers to a grand final as captain while also having a strong playing impact on-court, averaging 7.9 points a game, 2.7 rebounds and 2.8 assists.
But it was her leadership that stood out the most, something her new club is well aware of.
“Aimie has committed to the program for two years, which we see as a major asset to the club culture we are beginning to create,” Lightning coach Chris Lucas said in a statement.
“Aimie is a very mature player who shows natural leadership traits which is vital for us at the point position.
“She is a high quality individual whose game will continue to grow and is someone I look forward to working with.
“I am very excited to have her as part of our program.”
And Dandenong rising star Lauren Scherf has defected to rival Canberra Capitals in what is another stinging loss, but the team will be bolstered by the signing of Perth star Carley Mijovic, who spent time at the Rangers in 2012/13.
Mijovic is currently playing in the SEABL with the Frankston Blues.
The Rangers are expected to announce a few major signings in the coming months.
