Grants help First Nations athletes hit the court

FIRST Nations athletes across Victoria will share more than $100,000 in grants to help cover uniforms, equipment and travel costs for sports competitions. Twenty-two clubs and individuals secured funding through the latest round of the Aboriginal Sport Participation Grant Program. Community sport minister Ros Spence said the support would help young players compete and follow in the footsteps of role models like Cathy Freeman and Australian cricketer Scott Boland. “From the AFLW to the recent Paris Olympics and Paralympics, the performances of First Nations athletes on the big stage are an inspiration to all Victorians,” Spence said. “We’re proud to support our next generation of First Nations athletes play the sports they love and follow in the footsteps of legendary athletes like Cathy Freeman and Australian cricketer Scott Boland.” The Wildcats Basketball Club in Ballarat will receive funding for new uniforms and equipment, while the Wathaurong Aboriginal Cooperative in Geelong will use its grant to help local players compete in Aboriginal basketball carnivals. Clubs can receive up to $1000 for uniforms and equipment and up to $2500 for travel. Individual athletes can apply for up to $250 for gear and $750 for travel. Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins said sport was a key connection for Aboriginal communities. “Sport is a great cultural connector and the lifeblood of Victorian communities,” Hutchins said. “This boost provides even more opportunity for our Aboriginal Victorians to realise their sporting dreams.”