A six-association wheelchair basketball league has launched in Victoria, with Kilsyth Basketball set to compete in the five-week tournament.
Basketball Victoria announced the inaugural Victorian Wheelchair Basketball League (VWBL) on Wednesday 13 August, citing it as a step forward for inclusion and high-performance basketball.
The 2025 season will showcase talent from six associations, including Bendigo, Frankston, Kilsyth, Geelong, Wyndham and Diamond Valley.
Basketball Victoria’s diversity and inclusion manager Sheena Atkins said the launch of this new league marked a huge milestone for the sport in Victoria.
“It’s not just about growing the game – it’s about strengthening the athlete pathway and providing more competitive opportunities at every level,” she said.
The season gets underway in Bendigo on 13 September, with Kilsyth to host the third round on Saturday 4 October.
“It’s taken a huge team effort to bring the league to fruition. Hosting a round allows our local community to see first-hand the passion, skill, and resilience of our athletes,” Kilsyth Basketball competitions manager Lynda Spicer said.
“We’re committed to providing a competitive, fun environment that supports every player to reach their potential.”
With a focus on bridging the gap between introductory clinics and elite competition, the league provides a structured, state-level platform for wheelchair athletes to grow and compete.
The league will have mixed-gender teams and welcome able-bodied athletes, creating an inclusive space for both experienced and emerging players.
Approximately 60 skilled athletes with the amazing support of their associations, coaches, admin staff and volunteers will compete over a five-week season culminating in a grand final event held at State Basketball Centre (SBC).
The launch of the VWBL will give these talented athletes the chance to represent their association alongside able-bodied teams.
Basketball Victoria’s new wheelchair basketball league is now accepting expressions of interest for keen athletes.
Athletes will have the opportunity to play in a highly competitive, supportive environment that celebrates skill development, sportsmanship, and the love of the game. Basketball Victoria is calling on all interested athletes – whether you’re chasing high-performance goals or looking for your next sporting challenge, this league is the perfect pathway.
To find out more, go to basketballvictoria.com.au/competitions/victorian-wheelchair-basketball-league
