United in a love for the game

MEET the women behind one of the country’s largest basketball associations and new WNBL franchise Geelong United.

Jessica Chappell’s role as board chair is all about big-picture strategy and ensuring that the organisation is building a united, inclusive and sustainable basketball community.

With 20 years of senior leadership experience in corporate affairs, strategic advocacy and governance, Jessica brings a wealth of expertise to the role.

“Day-to-day, that means working closely with our CEO and board to set priorities, advocate for better facilities and funding, and making sure that we’re creating opportunities for players, coaches, referees and volunteers at all levels,” she said.

Jessica points to the work done to grow basketball in the region as the biggest achievement to date, particularly in making the game more accessible and inclusive.

“From expanding junior programs to increasing female participation and ensuring financial sustainability post-pandemic, it’s been a huge team effort,” she said.

“Seeing our club emerge stronger than ever, with a record number of players on court, a thriving elite program including the WNBL, and a renewed focus on community – that, to me, is success.”

As for the impact that women are having on the sports sector, Jessica believes women are not just shaping it, they’re redefining it.

“Whether it’s driving professional women’s leagues to new heights, leading major sporting organisations, or pushing for equality in pay, facilities and opportunities, the influence of women in sport has never been stronger,” she said.

Jessica said that, as the mother of a young daughter, International Women’s Day holds an even deeper meaning.

“It’s a chance to reflect on the world she’s growing up in and the opportunities we’re creating for her generation,” she said.

“I want her to see that leadership, resilience and ambition aren’t defined by gender, and that she belongs anywhere she chooses to be; whether that’s on the court, in the boardroom, or leading change in her own way.”

As general manager of partnerships, Connie Bolger oversees strategic partnerships, brand development and marketing initiatives, a role that she said is diverse and ever-changing.

“From negotiating and managing relationships with national brands and community partners to planning and delivering game days, every day is different and presents a new opportunity to grow engagement, elevate the brand, and strengthen connections within our community,” she said.

“One of my proudest achievements has been playing a key role in establishing the Geelong United WNBL team in just a matter of months. This milestone not only expanded opportunities for elite women’s basketball in our region but also reinforced the broader impact of women’s sport on business and leadership.”

 

Connie is particularly proud of the relationships she has built along the way, and has enjoyed connecting with passionate business owners and leaders who share a belief in the power and influence of women’s sport.

“Research by Ernst & Young (2013) found 94 per cent of women in executive roles participated in sport, with 52 per cent competing at the university level,” she said.

“This highlights the critical role sport plays in fostering leadership qualities, and I’m proud to contribute to a platform that can drive increased participation and open career pathways for women in business.”

Connie believes that women are playing a vital role across all areas of the sports sector, from leadership to business, marketing and media, through to coaching, operations and competing as elite athletes.

“Their contributions are driving real change, shaping the industry both culturally and commercially,” she said.

Asked about advice for young women looking to get into the sector or into a leadership role, Connie said career paths are rarely linear and the sports industry can be competitive.

“If you don’t land your ideal role straight away, gaining experience and skills in other industries can be incredibly valuable as many of these capabilities are highly transferable to sporting organisations,” she said.