THE COFFS Harbour Suns Under 14s girls team are the toast of the Coffs Harbour Basketball Association, after winning a state title.
The Suns girls won their division at the Basketball NSW Waratah Junior League State Cup in Wollongong.
The Suns side took home the gold medals and the honour of being crowned state champions after a thrilling 44-41 win in their grand final against the Blacktown Storm.
The state title win capped off a tremendous year in which they also had an undefeated season and won the Waratah North Eastern Junior League Finals in Tamworth.
A club spokesperson gave a recap of the girls’ road to victory in Wollongong.
“In an incredible display of grit, heart, and teamwork, the girls fought from behind to beat the Sydney Comets by five points in a high-quality opening game,” they said.
“They backed it up that same night in another tough contest, this time against Hills Hornets, again digging deep to hit the lead in the final quarter and claim another hard-fought win.
“Sunday saw the team face Dubbo Rams, where they continued their momentum with a strong 44-29 victory, setting up a thrilling grand final showdown with Blacktown Storm.
“In a see-sawing battle, the girls showed poise under pressure, locked down defensively, and finished strong to take home the title 44-41.
“Special shoutout to Blair Hofman, named Grand Final MVP – a well-deserved honour.”
Suns girls coach Felicity Cook explained why the team was able to win a state title.
“I would definitely say their commitment to training all year, resilience and desire to compete with the best,” she said.
“They had the belief in each other that they could win, and being able to stay calm under pressure and play as a unit certainly stood out on the weekend.
“Everyone came in and played a role on the court and their bench energy was on fire.
“We played against quick and physical competition and the girls rose to the challenge every time, locking in defensively and focussing on the task at hand.
“They moved the ball so well and showed what true country spirit can achieve.
“I am so proud of each and everyone of them, the support crew was also a fabulous help on the sidelines, we’ve had an incredible year together.”
By Aiden BURGESS
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