Growing Inclusion & Pathways at SPBA

Southern Peninsula Basketball Association are not wasting time during this second round of restrictions. Providing basketball participation as a lifelong experience for everyone is a key driving force moving forward. That is catering pathways for everyone’s ability whether you have dreams of playing for Australia or simply going out and having fun with friends.

Newly appointed General Manager, Ben White has put forward a vision for Southern Peninsula in building inclusion in the region with our catchment extending down to the end of the Peninsula.
“We know sport in general provides for important health outcomes for people of all ages and abilities. Basketball is the perfect sport in its many formats to achieve these health outcomes in the community. Our focus on this is complimented by all associations on the Peninsula also teaming up to push the agenda of inclusion.” White said.

Southern Peninsula has a rich history of success at a high level with three athletes gaining scholarships to the prestigious Australian Institute of Sport’s Centre of Excellence. This success continues in the next generation with eleven athletes and two coaches in the U16 and U18 state squads. The Australian Junior Championships for under 16s and under 18s were set to be held in Perth and Ballarat respectively but were cancelled due to COVID-19. White tells “how important it is that we continue this history of excellence in high performance, providing youth athletes with role models, challenged and goals is a pivotal part to success in the world”.

“Across all local associations our focus areas will include indigenous participation, all abilities, wheelchair basketball, walking basketball and building diversity. Southern Peninsula have already met with the Basketball Victoria Inclusion Department and a number of community organisations to plan a path forward.” Ben White said.

For our inclusion programs to be successful we will need to have a team of enthusiastic volunteers. If you have experience in these programs (or across similar programs) or are looking to give back to our community please contact us at gm@sthpen.com.au. With your help we will be able to hit the ground running when these restrictions end.