The future is bright for basketball in the Macedon Ranges, with the Macedon Ranges Rockies claiming three titles at the recent Basketball Victoria Junior Country Championships held earlier this month.
The Rockies won the under-14 boys and girls titles, before claiming the under-12 girls title a few days later.
Competing against the best regional teams from across Victoria, the Rockies teams delivered outstanding performances, demonstrating skill, determination and a true team spirit.
The under-14 girls lead the way with a gritty and disciplined performance in their grand final against Wodonga in the division 4 grand final.
In a tightly contested match, the Rockies girls held their nerve to claim the win 32-25.
Amalie Casselton put up 21 points for the Rockies.
Not to be out done, the under-14 boys stamped their authority on the competition, in a commanding display, powering their way to a convincing division 4 grand final victory against Colac.
The boys controlled the game from start to finish, claiming the title with a dominant scoreline of 61-28.
Ryder Stokes and Elliott Collins top scored with 12 points apiece for the Rockies.
In the under-12s, the girls won the division 5 grand final against Wangaratta, 35-31.
The Rockies said the girls showed true resilience, teamwork, and determination to defeat Wangaratta bringing home the title.
“Their effort, dedication, and never-give-up attitude are a true credit to themselves, their coaches, and the club.”
The under-12 boys lost in the division 5 semi finals by one point.
The Macedon Ranges Basketball Association said the committee and wider basketball community was proud of both teams.
“Their success is a reflection of the athletes’ commitment to training and teamwork, the expertise of the coaching staff, and the ongoing support of families and volunteers behind the scenes,” the committee said. “It is also a testament to the strength of junior basketball development in the Macedon Ranges.
“This latest success follows a strong representative season for MRBA.
“The under-18 boys were crowned runners up in Bendigo in February, whilst the under-16 boys and girls teams represented the region proudly in Melton during March.”
The club is hoping that the success leads to more people joining the association.
“With junior basketball participation on the rise and a growing culture of development and success, the MRBA continues to build a pathway for young athletes to thrive.”
Details: https://www.mrba.org.au/
