Forestville U10s reunite for a championship run

Feature image via: Dan Cowley 

After losing in the Grand Final last season, five Eagles juniors will reunite to try to bring their original club a championship.

All starting in Forestville's U10 Girls’ program, the team on paper looks like a title contender featuring the returning Sam Simons, sister Jess, Maddy Freer, Gabi Vidmar and Ella Sawyer. 

(Supplied) Forestville juniors pictured

Simons won the Halls Medal (MVP) back in 2022 and returns to the club after two seasons in the NBL1 South with the Melbourne Tigers. 

The remaining four all played in the Grand Final last season, headlined by Madison Freer. She was the Eagles’ go-to scorer last season, averaging 13.1 points and eight rebounds, and was named the Merv Harris Medal (Women's U23) winner, and in the conference’s All-Star Five.  

Ahead of their debut together this weekend, Freer explained what it means to reunite and represent the club at the highest level. 

“Playing for the last 15 years at Forestville is something truly special to me. I’m beyond excited to be back this season, playing alongside the friends I grew up with,” she said. 

“It’s incredible to see those who started as juniors work their way up through the age groups and reach the NBL1 level. It’s a testament to just how special Forestville is as a club, and I cannot wait to get back to playing.”

While Jess Simons added, “It’s incredible to see so many longtime members of this special club return this year to play together again. Forestville has been a huge part of my life from the very beginning; growing up around trainings and the NBL1 team while my parents coached was all I knew as a kid.” 

“I spent my entire junior career here, with countless nights in a basketball stadium, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Now, being back with the friends I grew up playing with makes this season even more exciting. We’re here to do something special, and we can’t wait for what’s ahead.” 

Sawyer explained how unique it is to have the opportunity at this level. 

“Playing with some of my oldest and best friends feels like a full-circle moment,” she said.

“This season is about so much more than just wins and losses; it’s about cherishing the journey, playing for each other, and representing the club that has shaped us.”

With Gabi Vidmar adding, “it’s super special to be back playing alongside these girls after all these years. I think it shows how important Forestville has been for all of us.”

“To all be back in Adelaide and playing for Forestville again is something I know we’re all really looking forward to.” 

Their first clash together will be against the Sturt Sabres, the team they defeated in the Preliminary Finals. Watch the game live from 6:15pm ACDT via NBL1.com.au or the NBL1 App. 

Read the full article via Forestville here.