BBBBBBBB SSSSB Double win for Collie Basketball Association

TWO Collie basketball teams won the grand finals in their respective Country Championships divisions at Perth’s Bendat Recreation Centre at the weekend.

Collie’s under-12s girls’ team played in division three and was undefeated.

They beat Harvey 24 to 7 in the grand final, where MJ Laverty was named as the grand final’s most valuable player.

The under-12s boys’ team was also undefeated, and beat Bunbury in the grand final, 38 to 17. Knox Harker was the most valuable player in the grand final.

Collie’s under-13s boys’ team came a close second against Bridgetown. The final score was 26 to 17.

Girls’ team coach Rochelle Piavanini said she was proud. Four of the team’s players had competed in Country Championships previously, while five made their debut.

“The way they committed themselves to all training sessions set them up ready to compete and get the result they achieved,” she said.

Under-12s boys’ coach Mat Harker said his team had five players who were at their first Country Championships, while three had previous experience.

“The boys played a team-oriented game and responded well to new game plans and defence strategies,” he said.

Under-13s boys coach Chris Stewart said his team far exceeded his expectations.

“Their swarming defence was a highlight which led to some gutsy come from behind wins,” he said.

“The boys often put their bodies in the firing line in a tough grand final loss. I am super proud of them all.”