The highly anticipated derby fixture exceeded expectation as UWA Maali silenced the home team with two comprehensive wins over the Curtin University Carnaby’s.
UWA Maali were ruthless in its pursuit to claim the cross-town bragging rights in the Pride derby with a thrilling victory across the two games. Travelling across the river, UWA Maali arrived to a packed Curtin Stadium ready to take on the home team in a two game derby round. Starting the round, UWA Maali men versed the Curtin Carnaby men.
After a disappointing loss against RMIT, the men’s team ignited its finals dream with a 99 – 65 win over the home team. UWA Maali secured the largest margin of the season, a collective effort, with the team missing the triple figure by 1 point. Kyiah O’Donohue impressed with 19 points and 5 steals to support the commanding win. Under immense pressure, Nick Floyd fought off a fiery Carnaby defence to notch 19 points, 15 rebounds and 6 assists. The young gun had a powerful combination with Tom Gerovich. An unstoppable force, Gerovich scored 27 points, collected 11 rebounds and obtained 1 block. Gerovich certainly silenced the sea of orange fans at Curtin Stadium.
The battle of the West brought out a new level of intensity and rivalry to the game. Stepping on the gas, Abby Hall produced an emphatic performance as the main scorer for the UWA Maali women’s side. Recording 20 points and collecting 13 total rebounds, Hall has solidified herself as a league MVP candidate. The UWA Maali women were on track to secure it's first triple consecutive win and a spot in the final. A clinical performance, Ellie Newman contributed to the 83-53 win over the rival team with 11 rebounds, 4 assists and 19 points. Erin Cleland was a menace on defence, gaining 7 rebounds in the game. Sydney Meares, a stand-out player that helped clinch the victory, scored 11 points and secured 6 assists.
Overall, the teams were championing a cause that exceeds trophies, pride in sport. The UBL Pride Round aims to increase visibility and provide education and awareness to student athletes, members and supporters.
"As a Queer identifying person, the role of UWA Maali Pride Ambassador is important to create the visibility and representation in sport and the wider community. Helping to support the already inclusive and safe environment is significant."
Jenna Teasdale, UWA Maali Women's Captain
The timing of Pride Round is important with the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) approaching next week and Pride Month in June.
UWA Sport celebrates diversity of sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and intersex status. In addition, UWA Sport acknowledge the barriers experienced by the LGBTQIA+ community, and we are passionate about providing a safe space for everyone to lead happy, healthy and active lives. UWA Sport enters its third year of partnership with the Pride in Sport program, making an ongoing commitment to the development and enhancement of the inclusion of LGBTQIA + people in sport at UWA.
For more information on the UBL competition, visit UniSport and watch replays at UniSport TV. If you are seeking additional support in the space of LGBTQIA+ inclusion, follow here to see support services.