The history-making Wizards, featuring local stars Gaweesha Weeratunga (Craigieburn) and James Latham (Westmeadows), were victorious by five wickets in the final of the under-14 Commonwealth Bank state championships over Southern Rangers at the Ian Johnson Oval in Albert Park last week to claim their first state title.

"We are absolutely stoked," Castellas said. "It definitely justifies that hard work over many months.

"To beat such a strong region in the final was a thrill because we've always played second fiddle to the stronger regions.

"We only choose from the North West Cricket Association whereas they have five or six junior competitions to pick from.

"It's a fantastic result for the boys."

Castellas has coached the Wizards' under-14 team since he was 18.

Coming through the Wizards in his teenage years, the 22-year-old Castellas now plays in Premier Cricket and overseas and understands the value of the competition.

"The individuals will hopefully come out the other end as better players and all-round sportsmen."

What made the win all the more impressive was the players having to adapt to a new surface.

Junior cricket in the NWCA is played on synthetic pitches.

This competition was the first time most players were exposed to turf pitches.

"Most of our players had little or no turf experience," Castellas said. "It's quite an achievement to play on an entirely new surface and win.

"This year we tried to get more practice matches on turf pitches so the players can adjust to a match situation, and that helped."

Castellas implored his players to take a positive approach to all facets of the game.

Captain Guy Walker led from the front. The St Mary's youngster finished with 153 runs at 30.6 to go with 13 wickets at 6.6.

He was far and away the most influential individual at the carnival.