Reigning Big V division one MVP Katie O'Keefe will coach the Mermaids in division two, but is not allowed to suit up for the side.
WARRNAMBOOL Mermaids will play in the Big V basketball competition this season after their late entry request was granted.
Reigning Big V division one MVP Katie O'Keefe will coach the Mermaids in division two.
The Mermaids, coming off back-to-back division one crowns, withdrew from the competition in November, citing a exodus of top-line players.
Warrnambool Basketball Incorporated sent a letter to Big V on January 14 seeking re-admission following interest from a group of parents and players in fielding a team in 2013.
WBI chairman Shane Dean said the association was pleased it would have men's and women's teams in a high-standard competition this season.
Dean said as part of the Mermaids' entry conditions former division one starters O'Keefe, Kate Sewell, Holly Greene, Darcy Saunders and Carly Pulling were unable to play this season.
All five had suggested they would not play in 2013 after the 2012 grand final series against Craigieburn Eagles.
Dean said young guns Annie Blackburn, Olivia Krygger and Nicola Handreck would form the nucleus of the Mermaids' division two side.