SBA wins Basketball Victoria Medium Association of the Year

SURFCOAST Basketball Association’s (SBA) rapid growth has been recognised on the big stage, with the club winning the Medium Association of the Year Award at Basketball Victoria’s Awards Night last week.

The award is given to an outstanding club that has achieved significant accomplishments during the year, such as membership and participation growth, program development and results.

It becomes an even more monumental achievement for the club given it launched just eight years ago.

SBA president Leon Sayers said the award validated the dedication of the entire Surf Coast community to making basketball a thriving sport in the region.

“Winning this award is the ultimate proof that the SBA is fulfilling its mission.

“It means we are not just running games, we are building pathways, fostering community and setting the benchmark for operational excellence in Victorian basketball.”

“I hope this award generates immense pride among the players, parents, and the broader community.”

Sayers said winning the award was a surprise despite a strong year on and off the court.

“We are always focused on how we can improve and we still see ourselves as a new association trying to prove we can punch above our weight.

“So awards like this one are a great reinforcement of the fact we have come a long way in a short time and we are delivering at a high standard.

“I think we have built a Surf Coast family style community at SBA that makes all feel welcome and still part of a small town even though the Surf Coast has seen large scale growth.”

The SBA hosts both domestic and representative programs, as well as juniors and masters initiatives.

Sayers said the award was recognition of the diverse range of opportunities offered at the club, which will only continue to improve in 2026 and beyond.

“We know we can do things better and it motivates me as president to push us to the next level and want the SBA to be an association that others want to be a part of.

“I want to thank the SBA Board, our administrators and staff, the huge amount of volunteers we rely on every week, players, coaches, officials, our partners and sponsors.

“I would also like to thanks those that have been a part of the SBA over the journey that may not be with us now, but helped get us here.”