Melton Thoroughbreds are yet to reach their full potential in the Basketball Victoria Country Basketball League north-west women’s competition.
Sitting second at the halfway mark without a loss, the Thoroughbreds have shown some really good signs to start the season.
Coach Jessica Kivimets said so far they were pleased with the results they had been able to achieve.
“However, as a group we believe we have not yet reached our full potential, which makes it exciting to know that there are still a few more levels for us to reach in the coming weeks,” she said.
“Although we are currently sitting second on the ladder, the season is far from over, and there is still plenty of work to be done to secure our place in the finals.
“Both [assistant coach] Ash [Breukers] and I have great confidence in this group’s ability to make a strong finals run, but it’s important that we continue to focus on the process and ensure we are putting ourselves in the best possible position to succeed.”
Kivimets said every player in the squad had a clear purpose and had been able to contribute that effectively.
She said the focus now is on continuing to build on their current position, taking the next step in the process, and ensuring they finish the season strongly.
“All of the girls have impressed both Ash and myself throughout the season so far,” she said. “They each play their roles effectively and contribute in different ways.
“However, one player who has particularly stood out is Atap Kuany.
“She has made the most of her opportunities and continues to grow with each game. At just 15 years old, her development has been outstanding, and it’s been wonderful to see how much the team supports and gets around her.”
Kivimets said seeing so much young talent on the court for Melton was a pleasing sign for the future.
The Thoroughbreds are focused on re-establishing a female presence in the Big V competition in the future.
“It is certainly an exciting time for the club,” she said. “These young players are true competitors, and it has been fantastic to see them support one another each week and put us in a strong position for a potential finals appearance.
“We are also planning to establish a youth league women’s team in the coming years, with the hope that many of these players will continue to lead the way.
“This will allow us to re-establish our Big V pathway and create more opportunities for our junior girls to progress within the program.”
The Thoroughbreds will face the Bacchus Marsh Lions this weekend in a big game.
The Lions are sitting fourth at the midway point.
Kivimets said it was always a big game against the Lions.
