Story from www.vjbl.com.au

There is no doubt that basketball talent runs in the family for the Baldwin sisters. With Tahlia’s Girls Got Game nomination this week, both Tahlia and Bianca Baldwin have now been recognized as part of the Melbourne Utd. VJBL Girls Got Game program.

Tahlia is a member of the U16.4 Waverley Falcons side and is one of this week’s Girls Got Game nominees. Tahlia’s nomination came about due to a clutch play she nailed against Mornington last week.

“Waverley had hustled all game and with 9 seconds to go in the last, were a point down against a well drilled Mornington side. Tahlia was calling the shots outside the 3 point line and right on the buzzer, sunk a huge 3 pointer, putting the Falcons up by two as clock sounded. Her confidence in stepping up to the line and clinching such a big shot under immense pressure scored her a nomination for this week”, said Kim Round, MUVJBL Girls Got Game Representative.

The on court talent in this family does not stop with Tahlia. Bianca (16), Tahlia’s older sister, was awarded the very first Melbourne Utd. VJBL Girls Got Game Referee of the Week award.

Basketball plays a huge part in the Baldwin sisters’ lives. Their dad played basketball when the girls were growing up so it was not uncommon for the sisters to frequent basketball stadiums from a young age.

It was a natural progression for both girls to get involved once they were old enough. Bianca’s involvement in the game deviated from playing to refereeing when she was presented with the opportunity to earn some extra pocket money.

“I love refereeing because I can interact with the players…It’s different to playing, I feel that being able to watch the game (as opposed to playing in it) helps me understand the game better.” Bianca said.

Bianca recommends refereeing for girls. The highlight for her has been the new friends she has made, and of course, earning some extra pocket money helps. “Refereeing has also really improved my fitness.” Bianca says. “It is better than any other job"

For more information on the Melbourne Utd. Girls Got Game Program, check out the program page at www.vjbl.com.au