Christchurch Sirens Take Flight
Tagged in: Tall Ferns
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Just as their namesakes did to sailors in Greek mythology, the Christchurch Sirens hope to lure opponents in the defencejobs Australian Womenís Basketball League (WNBL) to their demise.
The new franchise name was announced in a statement from the Canterbury Basketball Association (CBA), managing the Christchurch-based AWNBL team in a partnership with Basketball New Zealand.
According to legend, Sirens were half-bird, half-woman sea deities that lived on a variety of islands and lured passing mariners to their death on surrounding rocks with their enchanting music.
The team logo has also been unveiled with winged elements referencing the conceptís mythological origin along with the aerial nature of the game of basketball. Red and black colours were included for the regional association with Christchurch and Canterbury.
ìWe are thrilled to put a name to this pioneering franchise as it quickly takes shape,î said CBA chief executive George Kazan.
ìWith the support of the Canterbury basketball public, we will endeavour to make the Westpac Arena a stronghold and ensure the Sirens provide opposing teams with a testing challenge.î
Game day presentations and team themes will now be tailored around the Sirens name.
The Sirens have so far announced seven contracted players with Tall Ferns Aneka Kerr, Karlene Kingi, Kate McMeeken Ruscoe, Charmian Purcell, Natalie Purcell, Lisa Wallbutton, Noni Wharemate joining head coach Leigh Gooding. More signings are expected shortly.
The defencejobs WNBL is considered one of the best womenís leagues in the world with 10 elite teams featuring players from the reigning world champion Australian Opals.
