An emotional Lucille Bailie has reflected on her proudest moment with the Canberra Capitals ahead of the club's 30th anniversary celebrations this weekend.
The premiership captain will join a host of past and present players, coaches and support staff celebrating the milestone ahead of the Capitals' must-win clash against Bendigo on Sunday.
Bailie retired in 2004 but said the memories last a lifetime, with one in particular standing out for the Capitals great.
"Captaining the team to the 2003 championship is the big one for me. Canberra had just gone through the horrific bushfires and we had to shift our match in the semis because the city was just covered in smoke," Bailie said.
"We won the final and I remember looking up and there were people hanging from the rafters with more than 5000 packed inside the AIS arena.
"I vividly remember giving the captain's speech after winning and thinking 'bloody hell Canberra you've been through such a tough time'. I was so proud to be part of a team that brought some joy and happiness to the city after it had just been absolutely smashed.
"That is a really powerful memory and still makes me really proud. It sounds a bit corny but I think as a sportsperson or anyone with influence you have an obligation to use your power for good."
Bailie emphasised the importance of celebrating the club's history and reminiscing with those who made the Capitals what they are today.
"It's a really integral part of any organisation, particularly sporting clubs, to be able to record and reflect on the history. It's an important celebration for not just the players and coaches but administrators and everyone who has been a part of the journey along the way," she said.
"My passion hasn't wavered. I've bled with these girls and I still have a burning passion for the game, I'm as proud of the sport and believe in it as much as I did when I played.
"I retired more than a decade ago but the memories are as strong as ever, the impact of being a part of the Caps and the WNBL last a lifetime, it's a wonderful thing.
The club hosted a dinner on Saturday night before past players and coaches will be honoured with a quarter-time roll call at Tuggeranong Stadium on Sunday.
With just three games remaining the Capitals must defeat Bendigo to keep their finals chances alive.
WNBL ROUND 18
Sunday: Canberra Capitals v Bendigo Spirit at Tuggeranong Stadium, 12pm. Tickets at the door.
