The team earned this opportunity by clearing two other major hurdles.
First by taking the divisional title in Shepparton, then winning regional honours in Benalla.
Kialla West competed with Laburnum Primary, St Mary’s Colac and St Mary’s Swan Hill in its quest for a stunning state title at Waverley Netball Centre.
Though the team would not finish on top in the end coach Maxine Watson was delighted with the efforts and progress of her team to be competing on such a stage.
“We definitely didn’t think we would make it as far in as we did, that’s for sure,” Watson said.
“For a small country school, I think it’s very cool that we’re going up against big Melbourne institutions.
“They’re a great bunch of girls and none of us saw ourselves going that far in the beginning.”
Wilson oversaw coaching duties throughout the Kialla West girls’ remarkable run to state competition, but deferred duties to Michelle Barzen on the day.
She was nonetheless equally glowing in her praise of those who missed out on a chance to play in Melbourne alongside those who did as the team unfortunately fell short of the final.
“(The school) ended up taking 13 girls down and, while four or five didn’t play, they were amazing supporters on the sidelines,” Wilson said.
“When we won the divisional title and the regionals we couldn’t believe we were on our way to state.
“It was definitely a beautiful team effort, it took the whole group.”
Laburnum, the only Melbourne team in state finals, would go on to win the title.
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