The Townsville Fire will enter the 2025/26 WNBL season without one of their brightest young talents, with guard Saffron Shiels sidelined following ankle surgery in the off-season.
Shiels, underwent surgery earlier this year. While the setback will see her miss the opening stages of the season, the Fire medical and performance team are confident she will return to the court this WNBL season.
“Saffron is an exciting part of our future and last season showed what a talent she is, Fire General Manager Sam Pascoe said. “The priority right now is her rehab and long-term health. She will continue to work closely with our medical and performance staff to ensure she comes back stronger.”
To bolster the roster during Shiels’ absence, the Fire have signedChantel Horvat on an injury replacement contract.
Horvat, a versatile 6’1” guard/forward, brings valuable international experience to the Fire lineup. After a standout college career at UCLA, she has played professionally in Poland and across Europe, Horvat’s addition provides the Fire with depth and experience on the wing.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Chantel to Townsville,” Head Coach Shannon Seebohm said. “She’s a hard-working and versatile player who has competed at some of the highest levels globally. She will slot seamlessly into our system and bring an immediate impact.”
Horvat is excited to be heading North.
“I’m tremendously excited to be joining the Fire! This is a great opportunity to compete in one of the best basketball leagues, and I’m thrilled to be playing alongside a talented and competitive group. Looking forward to a special season. Fire up!”
The Fire faithful can expect to see Horvat in orange when the season tips off in October, while Shiels will remain a visible part of the group as she continues her rehab with the team.
