MANSFIELD'S Under 12 Boys Gold team showcased their skill and determination over the weekend of November 9-10 at the Southern Peninsula Tournament, securing a nail-biting grand final win against Hawthorn.

The team’s journey to the grand final was marked by an impressive unbeaten streak, with four consecutive victories against strong contenders: Leongatha, Bulleen, McKinnon, and Camberwell.

These wins earned them a well-deserved spot in the final, where they faced off against a formidable Hawthorn side.

The grand final was a fiercely contested game from start to finish, with both teams battling it out in a neck-and-neck showdown.

Mansfield’s heart and resilience shone through, as they rallied together to secure a memorable five point victory.

The win was a total team effort.

Koby Gridley was outstanding, dominating the court with strong rebounds, lightning speed, and accurate shooting, which earned him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) title for the match.

Harry Harcus made a significant impact as well, showcasing his strength in rebounds and providing a solid defensive anchor for the team.

Luis Owens was unstoppable in attack, leading the scoring with an impressive 14 points.

His lightning-fast pace spearheaded the "mosquito fleet," with Zac Clingsporn and Ned Forrest applying relentless defensive pressure.

Their tenacious play forced turnovers and disrupted Hawthorn's offensive rhythm, making it tough for their opponents to gain any momentum.

Jed Robinson and Ben Hewitt displayed excellent ball control and passing, helping to keep Mansfield's offense dynamic.

Luca Fados showed incredible strength under the ring, playing a key role in both offense and defense, and making crucial plays that helped secure the win.

The team was expertly guided by coaches Hayley Craig and Chris Fados, whose strategies and support throughout the tournament were instrumental in the boys’ success. Team Manager Alisha Forrest played a vital role in keeping everything running smoothly, ensuring the boys were prepared and focused for each game.

The Mansfield U12 Boys Gold team’s victory was a testament to their grit, camaraderie, and teamwork.

With this incredible performance at the Southern Peninsula Tournament, the future looks bright for these young basketball stars as they continue to develop and shine on the court.