U12 Girls Shine in 4-Game Weekend of OBL hosted in Belleville
The U12 Girls had an outstanding performance during Week 2 of the Ontario Basketball League (OBL), hosted right here in Belleville. The team swept all four games, showcasing their skills and teamwork.
Game 1
The Spirits kicked off the weekend with a thrilling matchup against the undefeated Markham (DCB) Storm. In a nail-biting, back-and-forth game, Belleville emerged victorious, defeating Markham 35-29. The win was fueled by a dominant second-half defense.
•Game MVP: June Wollenberg with 11 points
•Key Contributions: Sophiya Vance (8 points), Mila Kaliaieva (6 points), and Sammy Bentley (6 points).
Game 2
Next up, the Spirits overwhelmed the Etobicoke Thunder in a decisive 65-8 victory, displaying a balanced offensive attack.
•Game MVP: Kiyon Maracle with 12 points
•Top Scorers: Mila Kaliaieva (14 points), June Wollenberg (10 points), and Gracyn McColl (6 points).
Game 3
Facing a tough and persistent Vaughan squad, the girls overcame an early 8-0 deficit to secure a 24-12 win. Another swarming second-half defense turned the tide.
•Game MVP: Mila Kaliaieva with 8 points
•Key Contributions: Everly Clarke and Eve Mitchell (4 points each).
Game 4
In the final matchup, the team delivered their best offensive performance of the weekend, holding on for an exciting 45-41 victory.
•Top Scorers: Mila Kaliaieva and June Wollenberg (8 points each)
•Game MVP: Sammy Bentley with strong offensive and defensive contributions alongside Irelyn O’Connor (6 points each)
•Additional Contribution: Eve Mitchell (5 points).
The U12 Girls now boast an impressive 6-0 record in Pool D and are poised to move up in the rankings as the OBL prepares for the final six games of the season. Even more impressive, dating back to last year, the team has now won 17 straight OBL games—a remarkable achievement!
The weekend’s success was a full team effort, with all 12 players making significant contributions, including Athena Stapley, Reese Coughlin, and Norah Lad.
Acknowledgements
•Coaches: Terri Coughlin and Sandro Palleschi
•Manager: June Wollenberg
•Parent Volunteers: A special thank you to Kaitie Clarke and the parents who ran a top-notch canteen all weekend, earning rave reviews. Additional thanks to all the parents and helpers who kept score, ran the clock, and supported the team.
•Scarlett Clarke: For her dedication in assisting throughout the weekend in multiple capacities.
Congratulations to the U12 Girls on their incredible teamwork and dedication! Here’s to keeping the streak alive!
