Following our Junior Presentation Night, we’re shining a spotlight on our two Karen Ashby GRIT Award recipients for 2026, recognising those who have demonstrated the qualities that sit at the heart of our junior program.
G – Good sportsmanship
R – Responsible
I – Intensity
T – Toughness
Congratulations to Lena Wiltsher and Riley Dilges, who were recognised with this honour.
An incredible achievement for both Lena and Riley, and thoroughly deserved after outstanding seasons.
Hear from their coaches as they reflect on their seasons, their qualities as athletes and what made them such deserving GRIT Award recipients.
Chris Thornton
“Lena Wiltsher has had an outstanding year, highlighted by her impact at U18 VJBL level, her State debut with Vic Country, and the incredible opportunity to step onto the floor at both Youth League and NBL1. Her ability to compete and contribute at senior levels at such a young age is a real reflection of her talent, work ethic and readiness for the next level.
As a key member of the U18.1 group, Lena played a significant role in helping the team claim the Junior Country Championships title before leading the group onto the national stage at Classic. Throughout the season, she has consistently demonstrated the qualities that make her such a complete and difficult player to match.
Offensively, Lena is a constant threat, with the ability to shoot consistently from all areas of the floor and create opportunities both off the catch and off the dribble. Her playmaking ability and basketball IQ allow her to impact the game in a variety of ways, while defensively she brings a level of physicality, toughness and competitiveness that sets the tone for those around her.
Perhaps most impressive has been her growth as a leader. Over the past 12 months, Lena has developed her voice and presence within a team environment, becoming someone her teammates naturally look to and respect. She brings energy and positivity every day, backs her teammates, and has an ability to lift those around her when they need it most.
Lena’s competitiveness, toughness and willingness to do whatever the team requires have made her an invaluable member of the group. She has had a year that demonstrates not only where she is now, but the level of basketball she is capable of reaching in the future.”
Jarrod Fryar and DJ Sutton
“Riley has had a strong year as a key member of the U18 Boys Team and the U18 Vic Country State Team, whilst gaining some valuable exposure to the Senior Miners Program. His contribution to the U18 Miners helped them win the Junior Country Championship and compete strongly at the National Classic, where he was one of the top scorers, averaging 20 PPG.
His athleticism and physicality, along with a strong offensive game, make him a valuable member of the teams he plays with and he has continued to apply that same approach to the defensive side of his game. He is a strong competitor.
Riley’s approach to training has continued to grow, contributing to the U18 Team’s intensity, and he has shown discipline in doing the extra work away from team training.
Most importantly has been his development as a leader where he has not only led through action but has started to become more vocal and willing to sacrifice elements of his game for the betterment of the team.
I hope to see Riley continue to mature as a leader, develop as a basketballer and grow to reach whatever goals he sets as he progresses into the senior ranks.”