The u18.1 waverley boys have had an amazing 2009 season, claiming both major junior basketball events in the u18 National Classic Championship & Victorian State Championship. The season began with very little expectations of championship glory, our approach was to develop the players and make them better, also building systems around our personnel to cater to their strength and to create a constructive environment where our players would enjoy competing at the elite junior level in the country. Through this process we discovered the determination and strong work ethic of our players and as a result players who had not been recognised as stars within the state in this age group where able to come together as a team and improve significantly both as individuals & team over the course of the year. This season wasn't with out its challenges in the finals alone we were able to beat Dandenong by 2, 67-65 in overtime in the qualifying final, Werribee by 5, 68-63 in a tight contest in the preliminary final & Melbourne by 2, 62-60 in the grand final. All games were very competitive and played in great spirit and the boys showed great resilience in being able to withstand all obstacles & challenges that were thrown at them from the toughest teams and players in Australia.  Jack Blackburn was voted the MVP in the Grand Final game.
To come from being ranked 17th in state in grading to winners of the Victorian Championship u18 grand final with no current state or national squad members in our team it was a huge achievement an maybe a first in VJBL history. As coach of the team I could not be prouder of all members of the team. When reflecting back to the season our fantastic achievement makes the team commitment to all regular season training sessions, morning sessions, pre season sessions, team meetings, tournaments & games all worth it.
 
I would like say a special thankyou to all team staff, parents, the waverley basketball association and in particular general manager Mike Bullock for all your support over the year.
 
 
GO FALCONS!!!
 
 
Eric Minerve.
 
Head Coach u18 Boys
Head Coach ABA Men
Waverley Basketball Association