Melbourne Vixens midcourt star Liz Watson will miss the 2021 season after having surgery today on the navicular bone in her foot in a major blow ahead of the season.
The club revealed that Watson has had a long-standing foot injury which has been managed for the duration of her career but has now deteriorated to the point that surgery is the only option.
Watson will remain a part of the Melbourne Vixens squad this season in an internal leadership capacity.
Watson said she had been really looking forward to the season ahead.
“I was really enjoying the pre-season and looking forward to playing in Melbourne again this year,” said Watson.
“This news came as quite a shock, but speaking to the surgeon, it was clear that this had to happen now for me to get back out there and play.
“The medical staff at the Vixens and Diamonds have been great in helping me manage this injury, and I thank them for the support so far and know I’m in good hands for my recovery.”
Origin Australian Diamonds Head Coach Stacey Marinkovich said she was devastated when she heard the news but knows the super professional Watson will use this time to push her game even further.
“We are obviously devastated with Liz’s injury. She is an incredible player and has been an integral part of the Diamonds for some time now.”
“She is an absolute professional and I know she will use this time to continue to evolve herself as a player in different ways and, when the time is right, will return to the court.”
“I know she is surrounded by a great team of experts both at the Vixens and Diamonds and we look forward to seeing Liz back on court bigger and better.”
The Vixens will now begin the difficult task of finding a replacment for Watson in time for the team's Round 1 clash with the West Coast Fever at John Cain Arena on May 1.
