Midcourter Renae Ingles has been named the Australian Diamonds acting vice-captain for the 2015 Constellation Cup series against New Zealand Silver Ferns, beginning on Tuesday 20 October in Christchurch.
The 29-year-old will fill the deputy role vacated by Kimberlee Green, who retired from international netball following the Diamonds’ triumphant Netball World Cup SYDNEY 2015 campaign, for the four-Test Constellation Cup series.
“Representing the green and gold is a privilege anytime but to get the opportunity to do so in a leadership capacity is extremely exciting and a challenge that I look forward to against the Silver Ferns,” Ingles said.
“It’s an honour to be appointed as acting vice-captain of the Australian Diamonds for the Constellation Cup and I am really looking forward to working with, and learning from captain Laura (Geitz). She is an incredible leader."
The Netball World Cup and Commonwealth Games gold medallist has plenty of leadership experience after being appointed captain of the Adelaide Thunderbirds in 2014 following the retirement of former Diamonds and Thunderbirds skipper Natalie von Bertouch.
After making her international debut against the Silver Ferns in 2009, Ingles has made 65 appearances for the Diamonds, which includes two Australian International Player of the Year awards (2009, 2013) and coveted Liz Ellis Diamond (2013).
“Renae brings a wealth of leadership experience to the Diamonds vice-captaincy and we believe her combination with captain Laura Geitz will provide a great example for the Constellation Cup,” Australian Diamonds coach Lisa Alexander said.
“She (Ingles) is highly respected by her peers, coaching and support staff at a domestic and international level; she leads by example on and off the court with her attitude, commitment and behaviour.”
Ingles will assume the role in an acting capacity until the team has had the opportunity to consider its leadership group in the new year.
