Be part of the Magic

DESPITE having two squads last season, a local basketball team now has just has enough to fill the court, and is calling for more ballers to get involved.

The Bacchus Marsh Magic Under 16 Girls side, which had 14 players last year, now has just five.

Magic Coach John McVie said having so few players meant that any injuries or absences would force the side to forfeit games.

“Just looking at club level, last season we had two teams. But this season, we only have five girls,” he said.

“Some of the drop-off is girls going to play football, but certainly not all.

“My understanding is it’s the age where they do start to drop off, some of it’s school, part-time jobs, things like that. But we’re in a desperate spot at the moment.

“The Bacchus Marsh Dolphins team folded three or four years ago due to lack of numbers…we don’t want to see the Magic or any other side have to fold.”

Mr McVie and the Magic players encouraged any girls in the age group with an interest to get involved in the sport.

“Basketball is the best sport. It’s an indoor sport, I look at all those poor football parents…and I’m happy to see kids play any sport…but, if they’re coming to basketball, they’re not out in the snow or rain in Ballarat on a Sunday morning like they are with footy,” Mr McVie said.

“I reckon we’re more inclusive than other sports,” Magic player Shayla said.

“On the court we all have fun, and we all include each other, and that’s why we make such a good team,” fellow Magic player Ellah added.

To get in touch with the Bacchus Marsh Magic Basketball Club, message the Magic Basketball Club Facebook page, or email [email protected].