Lara Dunkley has added yet another impressive chapter to her story being named vice-captain of the Queensland Firebirds.
The energetic wing attack made the move from the Melbourne Vixens to the Firebirds as a replacement player for the 2020 season, searching for more regular court time.
After impressing the Firebirds coaching staff the charismatic-Victorian decided to call Brisbane home – signing a contract for 2021.
Fast forward another 12 months and Dunkley not only finds herself making a significant impact in the mid-court but voted vice-captain by her teammates.
“To be named vice-captain is an absolute honour and something I will treasure forever,” Dunkley said.
“I have a special bond with this group of girls and cannot wait to push the bar higher and take on the 2022 season with everyone involved at the purple club.”
Leadership isn’t new to the 26-year-old, having held similar roles at various stages of her netball career, giving her confidence to serve the club proudly.
Those that have worked closely with Dunkley know she has a natural ability to bring people together, and that is exactly what she plans to do again this year.
“Leadership I feel comes quite natural to me, as I am a big believer in putting the team first and I try my hardest to ensure we all bond on and off the court,” the newly appointed vice-captain explained.
“Being a team first leader, I truly believe it takes the whole team and club being on board to gain success.
“I will ensure our group fulfils this, to be the best they can and get the best out of everyone around them, pushing ourselves to be comfortable being uncomfortable in all situations we face.
“Everyone that’s a part of the purple family is my first priority, and I will do whatever it takes when it comes to achieving great things together in 2022.”
Queensland Firebirds head coach Megan Anderson said she was not surprised by Dunkley’s appointment, explaining how players naturally gravitate towards her.
Anderson further described the talented midcourt player as almost a barometer of the team, as well as a strong player with a never-say-die attitude.
“Lara was really emotional when I told her she had been chosen as vice-captain, she was so honoured that her teammates had shown the faith in her,” the Firebirds coach revealed.
“It’s certainly something she should be proud of, the resilience, positive attitude and love for competing is what has brought her to this position when others would have given up.”
Dunkley will support teammate and captain Kim Ravaillion in leading the Firebirds, a combination their coach believes will work extremely well.
“I really do think their personalities will complement each other well and have the ability to get the best out of the team in any situation we face this year,” Anderson said.
“Alone they are powerful, inspiring and such great team players, but together they will form such a strong bond and unit and be just a tower of strength for the Firebirds in 2022.”
Ravaillion also echoed the thoughts of Anderson as she expressed her excitement to have Dunkley supporting her as the Firebirds head into a new season full of hope.
“Larzy is a great wingman not only on the court but as my vice,” she said.
“Lara brings so much passion to the Firebirds environment, she goes above and beyond to make those around her feel special.
“She is the ying to my yang and I can’t wait to lead this awesome group of girls with her by my side.”
Photo: Adam Head - Courier Mail.
