Basketball Victoria has received two government grants totalling $152.5k over 2 years as part of the Together More Active program.
The grants will cover two programs, Free Throws - a program that will facilitate a social and flexible introduction to basketball aimed at women and gender-diverse people, and Courage and Confidence to Lead - a leadership program for women aspiring to hold the Presidency at their association.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence is excited about the opportunity the grants will offer communities. “We’re proud to support a new batch of exciting projects that aim to make a real difference in the community through sport and active recreation.”
“This is all about opening doors to more careers, partnerships, members, volunteers and development and participation programs that benefit everyone, and we’re making it all possible through this exciting program.”
Free Throws will be rolled out at association level, with a focus on regional areas (in the early stages of the project). Initially there will 3-4 associations in year one and expand the program across further regional areas. The goal will be for the associations take control of the program, and for it to become financially self-sufficient within a 3-year period. While the participation program is being rolled out, we will also undertake a gender-equity audit within the associations. This will give us the information we need to support the associations to improve their gender equity processes and ensure they are a safe and welcoming space for women and girls.
The Courage and Confidence to Lead program was first conducted in 2018 and was highly successful at supporting and upskilling women in the basketball community who were interested in taking on a leadership role within their association. With the grant we will bring together twenty female aspiring leaders and deliver professional development to give them the confidence to take the next step in their leadership journeys. The program will also set up an alumni network with previous graduates of the program to provide the opportunity for formal and informal mentoring and sponsorship to occur.
Being able to provide our community with the opportunity to grow, learn and be supported is a part of our strategic plan for our associations.
Basketball Victoria Women and Girls Participation Coordinator Katherine Gourley is excited about the possibility of encouraging and supporting more women in basketball.
“I am delighted to have received funding for both the inclusive participation project and the female leadership project for 2024 and 2025. Basketball can be a real leader in the gender equity space, and by ensuring that women feel prepared and confident to step into leadership roles, as well as providing participation activities aimed at women and gender-diverse people in a social and flexible environment, we know that basketball can be a welcoming and inclusive sport for everyone.”
The Free Throws program will be piloted in at least two regional associations next year with the aim to encourage further associations to adopt the program moving forward.
The Courage and Confidence to Lead program will also launch in 2024 and we will be opening applications soon - so keep your eye out!
