Burdekin Wildcats Crowned State Champions in Division 2

Following their undefeated run at the North Queensland Junior Basketball Championships (NQJBC), the Burdekin Wildcats u12 Girls have now claimed the title of Division 2 State Champions, securing a Gold Medal at the Queensland State Championships. This remarkable achievement continues to showcase the talent and determination of these young athletes.

After dominating the NQJBC in August 2024 with 15 consecutive victories, the Wildcats traveled to Zillmere in September to compete in Basketball Queensland’s premier competition, which brought together athletes from across South, Central, and North Queensland. Held at the Northside Basketball Sports Centre from September 19 to 22, the tournament saw the Wildcats continue their undefeated streak.

The team, consisting of nine dedicated junior athletes, worked tirelessly to win all five of their pool games, earning them first place in their pool and a spot in the semi-finals. In a commanding semi-final performance, the Wildcats defeated Northside Wizards 1 with a score of 71-43, securing their place in the gold medal match.

On Sunday, 22 September, the Wildcats faced off against the North Gold Coast Seahawks 2 in the Championship game. In a hard-fought contest, the Wildcats emerged victorious, winning 54-42 to claim the Queensland State Champions title for Division 2.

Head Coach Larni Vasta expressed her joy at the team’s accomplishment, stating, "What an incredible season it has been for our team - winning 22 consecutive games, along with dominating three carnivals and becoming State Champions, is a remarkable achievement!

I am immensely proud of each and every one of them.

Their hard work, dedication, and teamwork have truly paid off.

This success reflects not just their skills on the court, but also the effort they put in during training and the support they give each other."

Coach Larni, in her first season at the helm, also acknowledged the support she received throughout the journey.

"As a first-time coach, this season has been an incredible journey - I’m grateful for the unwavering support I’ve received, which has been crucial to our success.

The girls’ hard work and determination made it a joy to lead this talented team.

I, personally, would like to extend a big thank you to our community for your generous support and donations that helped us reach state championships - this made a significant difference in our journey, providing the resources and encouragement that fuelled our success - we couldn’t have achieved this without you!"

The Wildcats would like to extend their gratitude to the Burdekin community and local businesses for their support throughout the season, as well as the family and friends who cheered them on from the sidelines and back home. Special thanks go to Assistant Coaches Kate Gaze and Jodie Miller, Manager Hayley Colls, and, of course, Head Coach Larni Vasta for their dedication and leadership throughout this unforgettable season.

GO WILDCATS!

Contributed with thanks to Hayley Colls.

‍

BACK ROW (L to R) Manager – Hayley Colls, Head Coach – Larni Vasta, Darci Colls, Allie Boland, Dakota Oliver, Bella Galbraith, Gracie Giardina, Assistant Coach – Jodie Miller.  FRONT ROW (L to R) Scarlett Sinclair, Radha Haller, Hallie Friend and Addison Reid.
BACK ROW (L to R) Gracie Giardina, Manager – Hayley Colls, Allie Boland, Head Coach – Larni Vasta, Scarlett Sinclair, Darci Colls, Bella Galbraith, Assistant Coach – Jodie Miller.  FRONT ROW (L to R) Addison Reid, Hallie Friend, Radha Haller and Dakota Oliver.
Allie sinking a free throw.
Coach Larni giving team instructions.
Time-out team huddle.
Scarlett getting the pass off.
Darci navigating the centre court.

‍