Last season runners-up, Brent Panthers, finally took the next step in their young CBL journey by finally claiming the U12 Division 2 crown in a season that saw the North-West London outfit prove themselves to be the most consistent team in the division, with a record of 6-1.
With a team that featured a number of 10 year olds who still have the benefit of additional playing eligibility within the division remaining for next season, the young Panthers showed improved teamwork and cohesion on both ends of the floor, in comparison to last season, led by one of the young coaches on the rise within the CBL, TJ Burnett.
The only blemish on Panthers record was a 3 point loss to Westside (24-27), which appeared to galvanise Burnett’s youngsters to finish out the season without dropping another game. Toby Lee, Clayton Roberts and Kyran Palmer led the way for Wembley-based squad, however it was the overall performance of the team that ultimately vaulted the Panthers above all other competition in the division. The Panthers stellar season is testament to a well-coached team, full of potential and high ambitions for the years ahead.
Coach TJ Burnett:
“I’m so proud of the boys and all the work they put in this season in practice. After last season (ed: Panthers lost in the D2 finals to Barnet Bulldogs) we all came in determined to get better and take the next step which for us was to win the division. All of the boys are really developing and getting a better understanding of spacing and running our offence better while also showing great improvement on the defensive end. Still a long way to go but I couldn’t be happier with their progress so far and I’m looking forward to taking it up another level next season”.
