Ex-WNBL basketballer Louise Brown to back Warrnambool Mermaids' Big V return

Louise Brown started her career in Mermaids’ colours and is eager to see the once-successful club return to Big V ranks in 2017.

Brown is busy drumming up support ahead of an open forum to discuss the Mermaids’ future at the Arc on Friday night.

“I don’t know about playing yet – my body is letting me down a little,” she said.

“I definitely want to be involved if there is a place for me, whether it’s coaching, assistant coaching or helping on the committee.”

Brown, 32 next month, returned to Warrnambool in December following a five years in Brisbane where she played for Queensland Basketball League side Northside Wildcats. A one-year stint back at her home club punctuated her move north and a three-season career at WNBL franchise Bendigo Lady Braves.

She believes a recent influx on high-calibre women’s players returning to Warrnambool, including former Canberra Capitals guard Nicole Gynes and US college player Maddy White, boosted the Mermaids’ chances of fielding a side.

“I think the time is right to get a team back,” Brown said.

But Brown said it was important support for the Mermaids flowed beyond the court.

“Hopefully on Friday night we get as many people there as we can,” she said.

“I have been spreading the word and sending messages. Everyone seems to really want to support it but at the end of the day it comes down to money and sponsorship.

“That’s why we need to get onto it quickly. 

“We have to show we’ll have a sustainable program. Committees are always volunteer-based. There is still a lot of work to do, it’s not just going to happen after one meeting but it’s good the committee has gone on the front foot and organised that.

“I think the playing side will take care of itself and the background stuff we need help with.”