Kim Green will miss the rest of the Super Netball season and could be sidelined for up to a year after suffering a serious knee injury.
The Sutherland Shire junior and Giants Netball captain ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament during a collision in the opening minute of the Giants’ round five 53-38 win over Adelaide in Canberra on Sunday.
Green was helped from the court by the Giants’ medical staff but returned to the bench with a bandaged left leg to cheer on her side in the second half.
Scans on Monday confirmed the extent of the former Australia vice-captain’s injury, with Green to undergo surgery on Thursday before starting rehabilitation.
Green, from Miranda, could be out for between nine and 12 months.
Giants coach Julie Fitzgerald said the team was devastated after hearing the diagnosis but would rally around Green in her recovery.
“While I expected the worst, I’m still gutted for Kim as is the rest of the team upon confirmation of her ACL injury,” Fitzgerald said.
“We’re a close knit group so we’re all feeling this but I have no doubt the team will rally around her and provide endless support throughout her rehabilitation. I’ve known Kim for a very long time and I know she would be embarrassed by all the attention but she is an important member of our club and will continue to be.
“There’s a long road ahead but she is a tough cookie and I have no doubt Kim will conquer the challenges she encounters face on.”
Fitzgerald said Green would have an active role with the team as captain throughout her rehabilitation period.
“In my opinion, Kim is one of the best captains in Australian sport. Giants Netball is very fortunate to have someone of her calibre involved with the club and I know the players really respect her,” Fitzgerald said.
“Kim will continue to have a strong presence in this team both at training and match days but in what capacity and when is yet to be determined. For now we will continue to support and encourage her through this sensitive time.”