Geelong United signs Australian Opal Keely Froling for its inaugural WNBL season

New Geelong United coach Chris Lucas will be reunited with one of his most trusted lieutenants after an Australian Opal signed with the fledgling franchise.

Southside Flyers’ Lauren Jackson is guarded by Keely Froling of the Melbourne Boomers during game three of the WNBL semi-final series in March. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images.

Reconnecting with a long term mentor was a key reason behind Australian Opal Keely Froling signing with Geelong United ahead of its inaugural WNBL season.

The six foot two forward, who started her WNBL career in 2011 in native Townsville, recently flew to Paris ahead of the Olympics.

However, Froling said she was just as excited about joining United’s inaugural team with her former coach at the now defunct Melbourne Boomers, Chris Lucas, playing a big part in her final decision.

“It’s special I think to be a part of that first side,” Froling said.

“Obviously I enjoyed my time in Melbourne last year with Chris (Lucas), and I think we’ll recruit some really good players and good people.

“I played under Chris last year in Melbourne and many years ago in Townsville.

“I think we have a great relationship and I work well under him, so I’m excited to have another season with Chris and hopefully win a championship for Geelong.”

She is looking forward to establishing the side’s core values before the season opener.

“It’s about building a really great franchise that is known as one of the best in Australia, we do everything right, we play hard and showcase great basketball.” she said.

Keely Froling warms up for the Boomers before a WNBL semi-final against the Southside Flyers in March. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images.

“I want to be a massive part of the community, and have us be role models for kids coming up through Geelong United Basketball.

“Regional teams for me have always been the most special ones that I’ve played for because you do have that connection with the community.

“I’ve been to Geelong a few times and always appreciated the NBL1 teams and their support, and the lifestyle there in summer, I’m really looking forward to that.”

Lucas said signing Froling was a “no brainer”.

“She was the first player I contacted,” Lucas said.

“The standards of the program need to be set in the first year and she will lead by example with the bar she sets for herself and her teammates.

“It really puts us in a great position for our first year.”

Originally published as Geelong United signs Australian Opal Keely Froling for its inaugural WNBL season