One of the core values our association lives by is to ensure everybody has a chance to have a go at basketball no matter what background they come from. These values and hard work came to the fore and were recognised yesterday (May 1st) at Basketball Victoria’s annual awards night in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD.
Frankston Basketball are proud to be announced as the Inclusive Basketball Association of the Year for 2023. This esteemed award recognises the outstanding contributions made by an association towards promoting inclusivity within the realm of Victorian basketball.
FDBA CEO Wayne Holdsworth, who attended the awards evening said, ”We as an Association are extremely honoured to receive the very prestigious award. The award has recognised the strategy set at Board level around inclusion and equality and the work committed to by Tanya Thomas, who in my opinion has already left a legacy with her wonderful work in the inclusion space.”
Frankston Basketball’s remarkable journey towards inclusivity has been marked by a series of pioneering initiatives aimed at ensuring that basketball is accessible to all. The association is pleased to have been at the forefront of innovation, spearheading programs and activities tailored to meet the diverse needs of its community.
Programs Support Officer, Tanya Thomas has been leading the charge on the inclusivity front, “FDBA makes basketball inclusive for everyone by tailoring our programs and competitions specifically to people’s needs. We speak to people directly and find out what they need us to do to make our basketball programs, and competitions more accessible to them and then we act and make modifications based on those needs,” she said.
In 2022, Frankston Basketball took its first major stride towards inclusivity with the launch of its inaugural all-abilities competition. The competition incorporates many teams, coaches and referees, exactly like your everyday domestic game, but with modified rules to enhance enjoyment and participation.
Building upon this success, the association continued to expand its repertoire of offerings. The year 2023 saw the introduction of walking basketball social games, followed by the launch of wheelchair basketball sessions and games. With this momentum building, Frankston Basketball achieved yet another milestone by pioneering a vision-impaired basketball program, becoming the first association in the country to do so.
Furthermore, in 2024 the association hosted its first-ever walking basketball tournament, further solidifying its commitment to inclusivity.
All Abilities holiday camps and weekly programs have existed for years and continue to be the touch point for many who are just finding their feet in our basketball community.
The goal of cultivating an inclusive environment has even extended beyond the basketball court with initiatives such as the disengaged youth program, which has been integral in helping kids back on the right path.
Reflecting on this remarkable achievement, Tanya Thomas, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Winning Inclusive Basketball Association of the year is amazing, and it shows us that the steps we are taking and the programs we are creating are making a difference to those that need it the most. We are setting the tone for those that come after us, that inclusion is important, and should always be a priority… we are committed to furthering our learning in the space and making sure that anyone who wants to play can play here at Frankston.”
At the heart of Frankston Basketball’s ethos lies a core goal – to involve people in basketball at every level, bringing joy and fostering a sense of community. Through unwavering commitment to inclusivity, Frankston Basketball aims to inspire and empower individuals of all abilities to thrive in the world of basketball.
There is still a long way to go, however, the association hopes this achievement can reaffirm the transformative power of inclusivity in sports.