The Under 16.2 Girls had a great weekend. Despite being undersized, the girls used their speed and energy to take their tournament all the way to the Grand Final. Team Manager Sally Wilson sent us this report from a very enjoyable weekend.

Girls U16.2 had a very busy and enjoyable weekend of basketball, playing a total of 8 games in AR/B1. The girls, who are all bottom-age, faced some tough (and very tall) opposition and played with their usual flair and determination in some very hard-fought games.

After a narrow loss to Blackburn on Friday night, they recovered well to beat Camberwell and Ringwood on Saturday. Sunday was more challenging and despite flashes of brilliance, they lost to Nunawading 2 and Bulleen 2 in two close games.

Off to Doncaster early on Monday morning to play Bulleen 3 (thankfully in an air-conditioned stadium). This game was even closer, ending in a nail-biting draw.

So after 6 games, they finished 5th on the ladder (out of 8 teams in total) which meant they had to play Ringwood in the B1 semi-final, this time at Donvale with no air-conditioning. The girls managed another win and faced Diamond Valley 3 at the same very hot venue later that afternoon in the Grand Final.

Our girls were at a severe height/size disadvantage, but made up for this with speed and endurance. They battled hard and very nearly came out on top, losing in the end by just two points. Congratulations to all the girls for their efforts over the weekend and to Laura who was awarded ‘Most determined player’ in the Grand Final.

Special thanks to coach Oscar for his guidance and encouragement throughout. It was a fun-filled weekend and a wonderful learning experience for all.