Warragul basketballer Sophie Taylor has been selected to represent Victoria Country at the Australian Junior Championships in Perth this July.
14-year-old Sophie of Warragul has been selected in the under 16 women's team.
"Just playing at the national level with such high level coaches and players," Sophie said when asked what she was most looking forward to. "And meeting new people."
Sophie was left devastated after being selected in the team last year as a bottom age player but Victorian teams being barred from the championships over the state's COVID situation. However, she used this as motivation heading into team selections.
"This year I was just really happy," she said. "Last year I was in tears."
Sophie is described as a very versatile player, usually playing as a small forward or guard. She is 183cm.
Sophie's proud and excited family will be joining her in Perth to cheer on Victoria Country.
A Chalkies Basketball Club stalwart, Sophie started playing basketball when she was seven-years-old.
"I think it's the team environment and I just like playing with my friends," said of her love of the sport.
Studying year nine at Warragul Regional College, Sophie now plays for Dandenong Ranges in the VJBL as well as squad for Warragul Warriors. She plays or trains four to five days per week.
She was also invited to join the Victorian National Pathway Program including a visit to the AIS Basketball Centre of Excellence and has the Victorian State Development Program about to kick off.
Sophie's future basketball goals are "to play professionally and make the WNBL".
"And one day I hope to be an Opal," she added.
In addition to Sophie, Meg Cooper of Warragul has been selected in the under 16 team as an emergency.
Riley Morehu, long-time Warragul Warrior and Neerim Wolves ball handler, has been selected in the Victoria Country under 16 men's team.