Local partnership to deliver all abilities basketball first

LOCAL all-abilities athletes will soon make history as the first to hit the courts in Geelong’s inaugural Access All Abilities (AAA) Basketball competition.

Following the success of the AFL Barwon Inclusion League and AAA Netball, Leisure Networks and Geelong United have teamed up to provide greater inclusive sporting opportunities within the region.

The competition will kick off in October, be tailored for players aged 15 years and over and feature five local clubs – Sharks, Bobcats, Try Boys, Lara Giants and Rovers.

Leisure Networks program coordinator Luke Maher said he was incredibly excited to be launching the competition.

“Basketball is huge!

“We’ve been watching it just grow and grow in popularity throughout Geelong, so it makes sense that our all-abilities players want to get in on it too.

“We’re starting this season with a senior comp, then we’ll see how we go and if we need to expand opportunities for younger players.

“At this stage we have got five of the local clubs on board, with Geelong United helping to drive it.

“Basketball Victoria have been really positive in their support as well.”

Geelong United Basketball chief executive officer Mark Neeld said the competition would provide an amazing opportunity for all-abilities sports to grow in the Greater Geelong community.

“Geelong United Basketball is thrilled to be hosting the region’s first All-Abilities basketball competition.

“With the promotion of lifelong activity as the mission of GUB, we’re pleased to see the sport of basketball now available to more members of the community.

“We wish Sharks, Try Boys, Lara Giants, Bobcats and Rovers all the best for the inaugural season.”

Leisure Networks and Geelong United Basketball will run eight to ten rounds during the season, with the scope of adding more clubs and rounds in the future if successful.

“It’s like how we started with the footy,” Mr Maher said.

“We try things, we get feedback, we adapt.

“As long as all the players are having fun and getting involved with their community, we’re succeeding in what we set out to do. After that, everything’s a bonus!”

The competition will run on Friday nights at 5pm throughout Term 4.

Round one will kick off on October 13 at AWA Stadium in Belmont.