Sport
13 November, 2025
Young Redbacks impress at State Futsal Championships
Ararat’s next generation of futsal talent impressed at the Victorian State Futsal Championships in Gisborne on Sunday, November 9, competing against teams from across Victoria.
The Ararat Redbacks fielded two teams, while several local players represented West Vic in the Under-10 and Under-8 divisions.
The Ararat Redbacks Under-10 team won two of their six matches, performing strongly against representative teams that train together year-round as part of high-performance programs.
The Redbacks Under-8 team drew one game and lost two to finish third in their pool. They made the semi-final where they were defeated by West Vic.
The West Vic Under-10 team displayed excellent skills against tough opposition but were unable to record a win. The West Vic Under-8 team won two matches, defeating Ararat in the semi-final before going down to Vic City in the grand final.
Ararat coach Tyler Hamilton said he was proud of all the young players representing the town.
“We’re so proud of all the kids. They did an incredible job,” he said.
“They showed fantastic sportsmanship, teamwork and leadership on and off the court and it was wonderful to see them scoring goals and enjoying the experience. Thanks also to the families for their support, coaching, and managing the teams. Ararat looked the part in their new uniforms, and there’s plenty of experience to build on.”
Ararat Basketball Association Vice President and Futsal Coordinator Rod Jerram said the club’s investment in new uniforms help lift team spirit and confidence.
“We want our players to feel proud when they pull on the Redbacks jersey,” he said.
“The new kits mean we look like a united, professional club. It gives the kids confidence and shows Ararat can stand shoulder to shoulder with teams from across Victoria.”
Between games, the Redbacks players represented Ararat with pride, showing respect, enthusiasm and strong team spirit throughout the day.
Ararat players will next take part in the Under-12 tournament as part of the West Vic team on Sunday, November 16.
The Ararat Redbacks train every Thursday, with weekly competition on Friday nights.
Ararat Redbacks Under-8 team: Mayson Clancy, Mac Hamilton, Sam Mathews, Harry Ward, Leroy Walker, Akaas Singh, Levi Wilde: Coach: Andrew Ward, Team Manager: Pete Mathews
Ararat Redbacks Under-10 team: Charlie Gangley, Sawyer Jackson, Bodey Wilkins, Jacob Batobalani, Heze Hammond, Toby Louder
Alex Rickinson, Coach: Hamish Hammond, Team Manager: Nancy Panter
West Vic Under-9 team: Cody Hamilton, Hunter Wigg, Henry Beer.
West Vic Under-12 team: Oscar Phillips, Charlie Beer, Oscar Fox, Ace Cocks.
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