Tara Murray
Westgate Imperials are dreaming of what might be after making the grand final in their first Big V season.
The Imperials fielded a youth league men’s side this season as the start of what they hope will become a full program in years to come.
Playing in the youth league men’s division 2 competition, the Imperials on Saturday won through to the grand final, beating the Whittlesea Pacers, who were runners-up last season.
Imperials vice-president Sarah Simpson said while they had dreamed of this, it was pretty special to achieve it.
“We thought we would have a good season,” she said. “The season has had its ups and downs like all seasons do.
“The team has stayed strong and come together in close games throughout. It is so exciting.”
Against the Pacers, it was a game that could have gone either way.
Simpson said pretty much the margin was within five points all game. At the final break, it was just one point in the favour of the Pacers in front of a big home crowd.
A 22-13 final quarter by the Imperials sealed a 75-65 win and with it a grand final spot.
“It was so competitive,” Simpson said. “They kept hold of that lead in the last quarter and were able to get the win.”
Captain Kurt Butler top scored with 15 points for the Imperials, while James Avgerinos scored 13 points.
Simpson said the reaction they’ve had from supporters all season had been really special.
“We had 300 people at our first final at home at RecWest she said. “ The stands were packed and it was standing room only.
“Everyone is coming together for the great games they’re playing.”
Simpson said the success of the youth league men’s side would only help as they look to expand next season and into the future.
“We have put plans in there for a youth league women’s side next season and possibly another team,” she said.
Before then, the Imperials have a grand final to play in.
They will face either Pakenham Warriors in the grand final. The Warriors beat the Sunbury Jets in the other semi final, 72-62.
Simpson said they would be the underdog heading into the grand final.
The two teams met in the first week of finals with the Warriors winning 90-68.
“The coaches are already working through their plans for next week,” she said. “We’ll do what we need to do for the best chance to win.
“We like being the underdog and that is good.”
