The team finished with 16 wins and just one loss at the competition at Bankstown over the June long weekend.

The team said it was the "best feeling ever" and "unreal" to make the podium, after the disappointment of missing out on last year's state titles, which were cancelled due to COVID-19.

"All of the hard work had paid off," coach Miki Poole said.

"We even trained through the COVID shutdown, doing home challenges and Zoom fitness and ball sessions.

"We didn't get to play a game in 2020 and were devastated when the State Titles were cancelled. But, we were determined to make that podium in 2021.

"All nine of the girls trained hard and pushed themselves every week at training and during our lead-up games."

Cessnock went through the first two days of the state titles undefeated, and were sitting equal first with Coffs Harbour, who they faced in the first game on day three.

They had a tough loss to the eventual champions, but backed up to beat third-placed Tamworth by nine goals after trailing by one at half-time, in their standout performance of the weekend.

"All of the girls agreed this was the highlight - to lift themselves and each other up from a tough loss to go on and win the next five games to secure the second spot," Poole said.

"The determination of this team was amazing. I could tell they really wanted it. None of them gave up, they all encouraged each other and they supported one another.

"The girls certainly aren't the biggest on the field, but they have massive hearts and a massive amount of grit and determination.

"They never gave up, even when we were down, they worked hard to get the win.

"I also love seeing the friendships the girls have made. Lots of memories made together, singing and dancing together, braiding hair, massages, pool recovery sessions, fitness sessions, team dinners, carnival days.

"I'm so proud of them! Just seeing their determination and their support for one another on the court shows what a great team and group of girls they are."

The team comprised Lily Charnock, Jorja Fairlie, Tahni Beckett, Charlotte Connolly, Jasmine Kerr, Lilly Vasilis, Ayva Harrison, Nanetta Washaya, Madison Knott, coached by Miki Poole, with Madaleine Bailey as manager and Julie King as primary care person.

Cessnock also fielded a team in 17-years Division 2, finishing 16^th in a very tough competition.

Kurri Kurri competed in 15-years Division 3, finishing in fifth place; 17-years Division 3 (14^th place) and Open Division 2 (12^th).

Cessnock and Kurri Kurri will both send teams to the junior state titles this weekend.