17th July 2026
Author: Maree DeGeorge
Melbourne, VICTORIA - As Basketball Victoria continues its commitment to making the game accessible for everyone, more associations are being encouraged to deliver Ability Hoops in their local communities.
Designed for children aged 8 - 12 with intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorder, the program introduces participants to basketball through fun, modified activities delivered by trained coaches in a supportive environment. Through small group sessions, children develop fundamental basketball skills while learning at their own pace, building confidence and enjoying the experience of being part of the game.
Basketball Victoria Participation Officer Linda Woods said Ability Hoops is creating meaningful opportunities for children and families while helping associations build stronger, more inclusive communities.
"Every child should have the opportunity to experience the fun of basketball in an environment where they feel supported, encouraged and celebrated," Woods said.
"Ability Hoops creates that opportunity while also helping associations build stronger, more inclusive communities. We're already seeing wonderful outcomes at the associations already delivering the program, and we'd love to help even more communities get involved."
Woods said the benefits of the program extend well beyond the basketball court.
"Watching participants grow in confidence, develop new skills and build genuine friendships is incredibly rewarding. Ability Hoops isn't just introducing children to basketball – it's creating positive experiences for the whole family and strengthening connections within local communities."
Those positive experiences have also been recognised by educators and families, including Glen Katherine Primary School, Acting Principal Nora O'Reilly, who has seen the impact of the program firsthand.
"The coaching, visuals, dialogue and feedback are consistently positive, supportive and inclusive, creating an environment where every child feels successful and valued," O'Reilly said.
She said the patience, care and encouragement shown by the coaching team had helped participants develop both their basketball skills and confidence throughout the program.
"It is clear how much thought and care goes into supporting the participants, and the progress and confidence they have developed has been wonderful to see."
Having witnessed those outcomes, O'Reilly said she continues to recommend Ability Hoops to families within her school community.
"Ability Hoops provides such a positive experience for children and families alike, and I will continue recommending the program to our families."
Supported by the Australian Sports Commission and aligned with Basketball Australia's Everybody's Game vision, Ability Hoops gives associations the opportunity to welcome more children into basketball while creating environments where every participant feels valued, supported and connected.
As more associations embrace Ability Hoops, even more Victorian children and families will have the opportunity to experience the positive impact basketball can have both on, and off the court.
To learn more about introducing Ability Hoops at your association, contact Basketball Victoria's Participation team at linda.woods@basketballvictoria.com.au
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