Breakers credit focus for bronze finish

Albany’s Great Southern Breakers have come home from last month’s State roller derby tournament in Perth with a bronze medal.

It was the final round of a four-part series called the Boom State Clash, which was hosted across Geraldton, Albany and Margaret River.

Albany entered the tournament in third position based on overall scores from previous tournaments.

Albany has not placed in the State tournament until this year.

In the first game, Albany met the combined Geraldton and Kalgoorlie “Double G’s”, coming away convincing winners 400-47.

The win against Double G’s helped them advance to a clash against a very strong and physical WA Roller Derby, ranked second in the tournament.

Always poised to be a difficult game, Albany were well beaten by an experienced WARD 52-387 points.

The Breakers played their final game against Margaret River, for the bronze medal.

Albany came away with the bronze medal, beating Margaret River for the first time.

Albany played an excellent defensive game with Michelle Backhouse gaining 20-points in the first jam.

Margaret River ended up with three players sidelined due to penalties, while Albany finished with no players fouling out.

Natalie Jarvis said the team managed to stay focused despite the fouls.

“The team goal was to keep focused and to play a clean and clear game to not risk fouling out players and therefore forcing a forfeit game,” she said.

“The Albany team was overjoyed to bring back the bronze medal to the Great Southern.”

The Albany team now sets their sights on the international tournament The Great Southern Slam in Adelaide in June where they aim to finish in the top three in division three.

Jarvis praised the Albany team.

“This is a testament to their strong mental and physical game that they were able to bring to the State event,“ she said.