Ten girls, supported by their coaches, manager and families, travelled to Western Australia, on a mission to represent Manly Warringah Basketball Association at the Under-14 National Club Championships. The annual tournament brings together the country’s leading girls’ teams, following a season of fierce state competition.
It was Manly’s third consecutive appearance at the prestigious event, a milestone for the association’s junior basketball programme. The week gave the girls an opportunity to test themselves against Australia’s best young players, experience different basketball styles and develop the skills, resilience and confidence that come from national competition.
Following two days of preliminary games, teams were split into 12-team Championship and Shield divisions. Manly remained competitive throughout but saved their best for the business end, winning their final four games.
Their finals run began with a quarter-final victory over Brisbane, followed by a thrilling last-second semi-final win against Victoria’s Traralgon. In the Shield grand final, Manly overcame Western Australian side Mandurah Magic to secure the gold medal, finishing as the highest-placed NSW girls’ team. Trailing late, the girls fought back through determined defence, strong box-outs and composure under pressure. There were outstanding individual performances. Riley Clarke finished among the tournament’s top five scorers. Manly’s youngest, point guard Lily Thomas, also played a vital role, controlling the tempo and creating opportunities for her teammates.
Most importantly, ten young athletes returned home with lasting friendships, tremendous pride in representing Manly, and memories of an unforgettable national championship.