Red84
Two years ago
Reflections - Classic U18G
As a NSW based observer (a parent, not a coach), a couple of reflections regarding the Girls U18 comp from attending the Classic. First, having attended the Classic off and on for a decade, it was clear that the quality/competitiveness of Vic teams had deteriorated - undoubtedly due to much longer Covid quarantine in Melb relative to other states.
Former powerhouses Melb and Nunawading were well down. Sandringham also. Only Bulleen, which won the division and were clearly the best team, seemed to play in line with their high historical standards. Even regional teams like Frankston, Casey and Kilsyth looked a touch off, even though they fielded competitive teams. Knox - who came 2nd - looked competent but very guard heavy and a bit one dimensional in offense. In general there was a lack of competent bigs across the comp. Regarding SA teams - I only saw Norwood and Sturt. I was really impressed with Norwood - they have a wonderful big, brought up from the 16s to play. Norwood fell away as the tournament moved on - I suspect (I don't know) that other teams scouted Norwood and realized that the team relied too excessively on their star big in offense. Got to mix it up Norwood - diversify how you score. As for Sturt - no real change there with a game style that's been constant over the past decade- very quick, competent guards. They got 4th. Well done. But can do better with the list I saw - but this requires they contemplate renovating their systems to allow their bigs a more active role rather than be confined as a support act for their guards. In prior threads Sturt supporters have stubbornly refused to acknowledge this - fair enough. It's just an opinion.
