By Dongyun Kwon
Despite some obstacles, the Yarra Glen U13 boys didn’t make excuses but put in their best effort to win the premiership.
Yarra Glen Venom Basketball Club U13 D Grade team Venom B7 wrapped up the 2024 winter season with the gold medal after winning the grand final on Saturday 21 September.
Venom B7 coach Nicole Webster said her strategy was to improve each player’s skills while moving their focus away from the scores since she took over the coaching position this season.
“Honestly, it was just about having fun because that’s what junior domestic basketball should be about,” she said.
It was a challenging season for Venom B7 as only six players played for the team, which was not enough number for the five versus five sport.
Rather than being frustrated and making excuses for the challenge, the coach and the boys decided to focus on what they could do while enjoying the games.
The coach said winning the premiership was unreal but also well deserved and she was proud of how every player improved and built confidence as the weeks went on.
“We had a lot to work on at the start of the season with some fresh players, and with six players, it was tricky at times but the season was great,” Webster said.
“I felt like we were the underdogs early on but I knew the boys had the potential to improve their game.
“The boys showed a lot of resilience and persistence across the season, and I was proud of all of them for the listening and willingness to take on feedback.”
With the willingness to improve, the team trained nearly every week focusing on passing, dribbling, rebounding and defending skills.
The Venom B7 also played friendly matches against other U13 teams of the Yarra Glen Venom Basketball Club to build team chemistry.
The team ended up facing the same team SEBC Saints B39 for their two games in the final series.
Especially, the grand final was such a nail-biter as the tension kept rising because each team refused to give an inch freely.
From the jump ball, taken by Riley Helder from Venom B7 and Levi Fahey from SEBC Saints B39, both teams brought their best game, showing Venom turned over a quick goal at the start of the game, which the Saints quickly matched.
At half-time, the Saints were up by three points, but this lead was not to last as Venom fought back and quickly regained the lead.
The biggest point difference in the whole game was a six-point lead by Venom with six minutes to go.
Saints showed their staying power and fought for a final score of 27 – 25 in Venom’s favour.
“Finals went well but I was very nervous going into the grand final against the top side because the other team had some players who really improved and stepped up as well,” Webster said.
“The other team Saints helped our team to be stronger, and all the boys across both teams deserved the win grand final.
“I also think the boys were selfless and worked together well.”
Venom B7 centre Elroy Shortis has been engaged in the club for three years.
Shortis said he felt great about winning the grand final.
“Sometimes, I flashback and I feel like I’m still halfway through and there’s adrenaline pumping through my veins,” he said.
Webster is encouraging parents with kids to reach out to their local club.
“Our small community club is growing and we are keen to see more girls play in the club,” she said.
“I am so proud of the team and their sportsmanship, and genuine eagerness to improve was what helped us get the win.
“Basketball is such a great sport for many reasons and I would encourage parents with kids who might be keen to play to reach out to their local club and even try a training session.”
