UPDATE: Wyndham Basketball Association is set to compete in the groundbreaking inaugural Victorian Wheelchair Basketball League, which kicks off on September 13, 2025, in Bendigo. This league will feature mixed-gender teams and welcome able-bodied athletes, fostering an inclusive environment aimed at both seasoned players and newcomers.
This league marks a significant advancement for high-performance basketball in Victoria, according to Basketball Victoria. It provides a platform for athletes to engage in competitive play while emphasizing skill development and sportsmanship. With six teams in the mix, Wyndham will compete against strong contenders, including Bendigo, Frankston, Geelong, Kilsyth, and Diamond Valley.
The league’s structure will bridge the gap between introductory clinics and elite competition, creating a state-level environment where wheelchair athletes can thrive. Sheena Atkins, Basketball Victoria’s diversity and inclusion manager, stated, “It’s not just about growing the game – it’s about strengthening the athlete pathway and providing more competitive opportunities at every level.”
Wyndham Basketball Association general manager Jason Kelly expressed enthusiasm about the new team, emphasizing its importance for the western suburbs: “It’s much needed and it’s nice to have a side this side of the West Gate Bridge. It offers extra ways people can get involved in the sport.”
The league will host additional rounds in Geelong on September 20, Kilsyth on October 4, and at the State Basketball Centre on October 11.
In preparation, Wyndham plans to hold tryouts in the coming weeks to assemble both players and coaches. Kelly highlighted the expertise of coaches Damian Duke and Jason Bryant, who have been involved in state programs and will play a crucial role in developing the team.
This league is not just a sports initiative; it’s a call to action for anyone interested in wheelchair basketball, whether aiming for higher competition or simply looking to engage with the sport for the first time. Information about tryouts and team updates will be shared on the club’s social media platforms.
As excitement builds and the season approaches, the Victorian Wheelchair Basketball League promises to be a landmark event, uniting athletes and communities in a celebration of inclusivity and athleticism. Stay tuned for more updates as the league prepares to launch.
