Kids free as Spirit targets bold member goal

BENDIGO Spirit is hopeful any records it sets during the 2025-26 WNBL season won’t be limited to on the court.

The Spirit have unveiled a bold goal of reaching a record-breaking 500 members.

As part of its wider membership campaign, the Spirit is making membership more accessible than ever, introducing free memberships for kids aged five to 14. For adults, the price is an affordable $108.

The kids free option and low-cost adults membership were an acknowledgement of the rising cost of living being felt by many in the community.

“The Bendigo community’s support has really stepped up over the past 12 months, and this is our way of saying thank you for standing by us during our championship season,” Spirit general manager Dan Jackson said.

“We understand that times can be tough, and we wanted to remove cost as a barrier so that everyone has the opportunity to support the Spirit.

“We often hear the phrase ‘if you can see it, you can be it,’ and we believe it’s vital that every child in Bendigo has the chance to watch and be inspired by the incredible athletes and role models we’re proud to have here in regional Victoria.”

To further accommodate its growing fanbase, the Spirit is introducing premium allocated seating options for the upcoming season.

“We know some fans prefer having their own seat throughout the season, so we’ve introduced allocated seating in select sections,” Mr Jackson said.

“While this will be a change for some of our long-term members, we’re confident it will enhance the atmosphere and help us build even bigger crowds.”

It is less than 10 weeks until the Spirit’s home opener – a grand final rematch against Townsville Fire.

The game will also mark the unveiling of the club’s third championship banner, alongside its 2012-13 and 2013-14 banners.

“We want to see a huge crowd there to support us and celebrate this incredible achievement together,” Mr Jackson said.

The Spirit, under 2024-24 championship-winning coach Kennedy Kereama, have announced the bulk of their new signings and re-signings for 2025-26.

Players announced so far include Isobel Borlase, Marianna Tolo, Kelsey Griffin, Abbey Wehrung, Olivia Pollerd, Kelsey Rees, Casey Samuels and Micah Simpson.

Memberships are available now at am.intix.com/bendigo-spirit.