Sport
6 August, 2022
Under 16s rep at State Cup
After finishing division one winners in the Spalding Warratah Western Junior League, and coming division two runners up at the John Martin Country Championships, the Gilgandra under 16s boys team represented the town and the entire western NSW region at the ‘State Cup’, held on July 30 and 31 in Sutherland.

Hosting the winners of the Southern Junior League, North
Eastern League, and Metro League, the competition was fierce.
Gilgandra played Hill's Hornets in their first game, facing a metro
team for the first time. They were defeated 68-102.
Their second Saturday game was against another metro team,
Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, and despite playing a tough game,
Gilgandra lost again at 61-100.
After a night to recover Gilgandra
played their last game against Central Coast Rebels, winners of
the North Eastern League.
The game was extremely close. Gilgandra won the first quarter 16-13, were behind at half-time 29-28.
But came back to win the third quarter 55-52. It was in the
last quarter that the Gilgandra boys really pulled ahead.
Dominic and Sebastian Manusu stood strong and firm in their
defence and denied many baskets. Luke O'Neill, Jace Baker, and
Lochy Nolan were the highest point scorers, working together to
bring Gilgandra ahead.
Toby Smith, Izak Bennett, Azariah Ah-
See, and Ethan Morris were solid in their support, making baskets
and impressive steals.
Altogether, through their solid teamwork,
Gilgandra won the game, 91-68.
Gilgandra referee, James O'Neill,
also represented Gilgandra in the State Cup, refereeing under 18
girls’ games.
Throughout the competition, Gilgandra Basketball Association
has become known as the humble team, with great sportsmanship.
Opponent coaches, players and spectators’ comment on the great sportsmanship of the players and the coaches. The coaching staff and team are thrilled to have made it to State Cup, with winning one game a proud moment for all involved.