UPDATE: The Whittlesea Pacers have made a triumphant return to the Big V women’s Division 1 finals, clinching a thrilling victory against the Altona Gators, 70-63, on the evening of July 29, 2023. After several seasons without a women’s team, the Pacers have secured their spot in the finals, finishing second on the ladder, marking a significant comeback for the organization.
In a nail-biting match, the Pacers’ coach, Shannon Bodley, expressed pride in his team’s performance, stating, “They played really well as a group.” This victory comes as the Pacers compete in their first finals series together, showcasing their impressive teamwork and determination. Bodley emphasized the achievement of finishing second in the standings, noting, “Some other teams have played together for two or three years and have a bit of chemistry.”
Fans witnessed a hard-fought game where the Pacers maintained a lead throughout but faced persistent pressure from the Gators. The Pacers held a five-point lead at the end of the first quarter and managed to keep their opponents at bay, despite the Gators launching several runs. Bodley remarked, “It was exactly what I expected. It was up and down and fast-paced,” highlighting the intensity of the match.
Star player Tegan Cunningham shone brightly, scoring 22 points and grabbing nine rebounds, demonstrating her critical role in the team’s success. Bodley noted, “It’s like having an import and you expect that to step up in the big games,” as Cunningham continues to elevate her game alongside her teammates.
While the team celebrates this victory, they face challenges ahead. The Pacers are already adjusting to the absence of Meg Lucas, who has gone to college, and will now also be without Indiana Bodley, who suffered a torn ACL and broken wrist during the match. Despite these setbacks, the team is focused and ready to leverage their depth in the upcoming games.
Next, the Pacers will clash with the Craigieburn Eagles this weekend for a coveted spot in the grand final. The Eagles, who finished as the minor premiership winners, enjoyed a bye in the first week of finals. Bodley commented on the upcoming challenge, stating, “Craigieburn have sat on top of the ladder all year, and it’s going to be tough playing at Craigieburn. They are the top team for a reason and they will be hard to beat.”
As the Pacers gear up for this crucial match, anticipation builds among fans and players alike. With a double chance still in hand, the team is determined to continue their remarkable journey in the finals. “Hopefully it’ll be a fantastic game,” Bodley concluded, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying showdown.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Whittlesea Pacers aim for a spot in the grand final!
