Spirit welcomes proud partner Bendigo Bank

REIGNING Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) champion Bendigo Spirit has unveiled Bendigo Bank as a key partner for the upcoming 2025-26 season.

In what marks a significant collaboration between two iconic Bendigo institutions, the one-year deal will see Bendigo Bank feature prominently across the club’s home, away and finals uniforms, with branding on both sides of the playing shorts.

The bank will also be visible on game day through baseline signage, courtside hospitality and digital engagement, including dedicated electronic direct mail to Bendigo Spirit members.

Importantly, the partnership also includes a women’s leadership initiative, providing Bendigo Bank with the opportunity to host a female player or club leader at an internal or customer-facing event.

This activation reflects the shared values of both organisations in championing women’s sport, leadership and community connection.

Spirit general manager Dan Jackson said the club was thrilled to welcome Bendigo Bank as partners in 2025.

“We’re incredibly proud to have Bendigo Bank on board,” he said.

“There’s a natural synergy between our organisations, which are both deeply rooted in Bendigo and committed to making a positive impact in the community.

“We’re excited about what we can achieve together this season.”

Bendigo Bank’s chief marketing officer Sarah Bateson said her team was excited with the deal.

“We’re…ready to cheer on Bendigo Spirit – a dedicated and inspirational group of women succeeding at the highest level,” she said.

“Bendigo Bank is committed to gender equality and supporting initiatives that empower women.

“We’re also proud of our regional heritage and our support of initiatives that strengthen the social fabric of the communities in which its people live and work.”

The Spirit’s title defence gets underway on 19 October, when they host fellow 2024-25 grand finalists, Townsville Fire at Red Energy Arena in Bendigo.

Coach Kennedy Kereama’s team put the finishing touches on their preparation with a two-day visit to Shepparton last week, highlighted by their final pre-season hit out against Southside Melbourne Flyers.