Westmeadows coach Sonja Viehl had just three weeks to get a team together for the first season of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association’s women’s competition.
With such a short time frame, Viehl didn’t know what to expect when the side took to the field.
On Sunday, they played off against Sydenham-Hillside in the grand final.
“We came into the season as underdogs,” she said.
“Sydenham told us after the game they had been training for 18 months.
“Some of our players didn’t know how to use a bat. It was like a jump from Milo Cricket and learning the game to playing competitive cricket on turf.”
The Storm dominated the grand final, winning with three and half overs remaining.
The Warriors made 73, Danielle Linton top-scoring with 26.
The Storm chased the runs down for the loss of one wicket, finishing 1-71. Linton took the wicket for the Warriors.
Despite the result, Viehl said the Warriors were very much still winners.
She said they had been unlucky with a few decisions not going their way.
“We could have done some things a little differently,” she said.
“We had nothing to lose and we gave it everything all season.”
The season’s results were a bonus for the Warrior women, who have been delighted the community and the club have gotten behind them throughout the season.
After having a short time to form a team, the Warriors finished the season with enough players for three.
They fielded two teams from midway through the season.
“It’s been a positive and nurturing environment with a lot of friendships made,” Viehl said.
“There’s been a lot of giggles and banter. We’ve been proud of the achievements and the support given to the teams.
“The VTCA has been really good and we want to thank the families of the women, a lot of them mothers, that have allowed them to train and play.
“The Westy Warriors will be going for the title again next year.”
