Redbacks rise in Bendigo

Under-18 and under-16 Ararat representative basketball teams performed strongly at Basketball Victoria Country championships in Bendigo.

An under-18 squad, now preparing for a Ballarat tournament, made it to quarter finals after winning three of five pool games and advancing into division three of the championships.

Under-18 Redbacks coach Donna Spalding said the team had worked hard since October, competing in six tournaments, and praised players for their efforts at Bendigo.

An under-16 boys Redbacks squad shone at the Bendigo titles. also

The squad won all of its pool games, made up of 36 teams, on the Saturday to advance to finals on the Sunday.

The pool success placed the unbeaten group in division three.

The squad advanced to a qualifying final against Wodonga on Sunday, which it won 43-29. It then advanced to a semi-final and despite having the lead for the first half, lost to Hamilton 52-62.

Under-16 coach Megan Shea said the team finished third overall and needed to be proud of their performance and their representation over the weekend.