State Gold For Wildcats Boys

A season that started with inexperience finished with a state championship for the Burdekin Wildcats under 12 boys squad.

Head Coach Lauren Roncato shared her pride with the team, saying the boys had come a long way throughout the season.

“The boys began the season very raw and inexperienced,” she said.

“Out of the 10 players we had, only three had had previous rep experience.”

The team competed in three North Queensland Junior Basketball Competition carnivals throughout the year, travelling to Townsville, Cairns, and Mackay to compete and finishing in an impressive third place.

The team then travelled to Brisbane to compete at the Basketball Queensland State Championships from September 23 to 26, entering the under 12 competition in division 4.

An undefeated run in the pool matches saw the Wildcats enter finals with confidence, coming up against South West Metro Pirates Red for a place in the grand final.

After defeating the Pirates 68-56, it was Burdekin versus Ipswich Force 2 in the ultimate decider, with the Wildcats winning 61-54.

“The boys showed typical Burdekin grit and determination to win this close game,” Ms Roncato said.

“As head coach, I was very proud of the boys for their commitment to training each week, as well as their support for one another throughout the entire competition.

“It really makes it all worthwhile to see where they start the season to where they finish it, and the vast improvements shown by each player.

“The gold medal was the icing on the cake!”

Ms Roncato’s post-season message to the boys is a simple one.

“Just keep working hard on the fundamentals and enjoy playing with mates,” she said.

‍

Back row L-R Courtney Pennisi (Assistant Coach), Lauren Roncato (Head Coach), Amy Chandler (Assistant Coach); Middle row L-R Rocco Fahey, Jayke Durrant, Xavier Minuzzo, Bailey Lovell, Kyran Boccalatte; Front row L-R Chase Pennisi, Sidney Rizzi, Cruz Roncato, Linc Chandler, Daley Flanagan