Bellarine basketball wins regional award

THE Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association has continued its dominance as a powerhouse country basketball association after it was named “Large Country Association of the Year” for 2024.

The award, which was presented to the club at the weekend, is the fourth time in seven years it has been recognised by the Victoria Country Commission of Basketball Victoria as the Large Country Association of the Year.

The award recognises outstanding achievements in participation growth, financial performance, on-court success, and community engagement at the club level.

The BPBA has seen promising growth across several markers including a 12 per cent increase in registered domestic participants, surpassing 3,000 members.

The association also achieved a 20 per cent year-on-year revenue increase, while the strategic purchase of F45 Training Drysdale has provided dividends as an additional revenue stream to supports the association.

At a playing level, the Bellarine Storm Youth League 2 Women’s team claimed the championship title in the Big V season, while the Men’s and Women’s Championship teams both had winning campaigns.

The Storm also secured 11 Big V awards and won four Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) championships.

Basketball Victoria general manager David Huxtable congratulated the BPBA for their award.

“The BPBA has set a new standard for success in regional basketball,” Mr Huxtable said.

“Their commitment to growth, both on and off the court, their focus on community involvement, and their emphasis on development are a true reflection of the values that drive basketball in Victoria.

“I congratulate the BPBA team on their well-deserved recognition as Association of the Year and look forward to seeing their continued success.”

The BPBA also observed an increase in referee participation, following a 15 per cent increase in qualified officials.

BPBA also provided more than 50 coaches completing Basketball Victoria’s accreditation courses this year.