Rinaldi is the Miners women's first signing for the 2022 NBL1 South season - the first under new coach David Herbert and the club-wide Ballarat Miners branding.

"This is a really exciting time for the club, a new inclusive name, a new coach and the ability the play a full season in our new stadium. It's going to be a great year," she said.

"I am not getting any younger, but I am excited for what David (Herbert) can bring to our program. I know he will put together a great team of good people and I believe we can have some success."

Rinaldi sits second on the all-time games played for Ballarat having represented her hometown 309 times.

She played 12 games in 2021, averaging nine points and six rebounds a game.

"This is our very first signing and an important one to recognise the hard work, effort and sacrifice Kristy has given over many years," Herbert said.

"I would love nothing more than to win a championship for Kristy and that is exactly what we will have our sights set on."

The NBL1 South season is expected to start in April 2022.

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