As such, they’ve qualified to compete at the Footlocker National Club Championships in Victoria in September, during which the top four teams in each State compete over a weeklong tournament.
Coach Michele Austin who has been guiding the girls on their journey for the past three years, said the quality of female basketball at this level was second to none.
“The girls are incredibly excited to be competing at national level in the championship and in the NSW League, we have two games to go with 14 wins and four losses against teams throughout metropolitan and country NSW,” she said.
“With three local girls growing up here, it’s wonderful to see the rise of girls’ basketball in Bankstown.”
Player Gracie Curtis said “this is something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time, I can’t wait to experience Club Nationals alongside my Bruins sisters” while Ruby Prasad said “this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for us as a team and we’re looking forward to versing the best in Australia together”.
Azaria Mauasaid said “I’m excited to playing the nation’s top teams and improving my game” while Zoe Sonkol-Mourtzakis added “if you don’t believe in yourself, nobody else will, lets go Bruins”.
Having to raise $20,000 in travel, accommodation, apparel and food costs, parents have been organising cake stalls, barbecues and raffles, with Ruby capturing the girls’ journey via an artwork, titled, ‘Journey to Naarm’ (Melbourne).
The piece will be printed on the girls’ apparel with the original canvas to be sold to the highest bidder.
To make an offer or if you can assist with a donation, email Bruins14girls@outlook.com.au.
Follow the girls’ journey via their Instagram page at bruins14g_jpl
Help Bruins get to national clash
AFTER qualifying for the first time this year to play in the NSW Junior Premier League competition, Bankstown Bruins Basketball U14 girls are coming second against the top teams in NSW.