BASKETBALL NSW LAUNCHES 2024 FIRST NATIONS CHALLENGE

Basketball NSW is excited to unveil the 2024 First Nations Challenge, a groundbreaking event designed to empower First Nations youth through basketball. With the generous support of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council and the Illawarra Hawks, this event will take place on Saturday, 16th November 2024, at the Illawarra Sports Stadium in Berkeley. The First Nations Challenge coincides with the NBL’s Indigenous Round, culminating in the Illawarra Hawks vs Sydney Kings game at WIN Entertainment Centre.

Tailored specifically for Indigenous girls & boys aged 13 to 15 (Born 2009 – 2011) , this event seeks to inspire and support young athletes both on and off the court and provides no cost to the participant.

The First Nations Challenge is about more than just basketball—it is a celebration of First Nations culture and sporting achievement. Throughout the day, attendees will take part in a variety of cultural activities designed to instill pride in their heritage and strengthen their sense of identity. This unique combination of cultural and athletic engagement underscores the event’s holistic approach to youth development. 

Furthermore, this program aligns with the Basketball NSW Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), supporting the Relationships pillar by building meaningful connections with Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander communities and providing opportunities that encourage unity and understanding.

The schedule features a well-rounded program of activities, beginning with basketball skills clinics in the morning, followed by competitive scrimmages in the afternoon, where participants can put their newly honed skills into action. Additionally, attendees will have the chance to connect with First Nations athletes and mentors throughout the day where they will hear inspiring stories of overcoming challenges and achieving success. Special guests, including renowned athletes and members of the Illawarra Hawks organisation, will be present to further enrich the experience for everyone involved. 

Basketball NSW’s Indigenous Programs Manager, Darren Allie shared his enthusiasm for the event.

 “The First Nations Challenge is a platform to not only develop basketball skills but also connect young athletes with BNSW and Illawarra Hawks. 

“This event is a celebration of who they are and where they come from, and we are excited to see the impact it will have on our community. We are very thankful for the support of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council as well as the Illawarra Hawks.”

Participants in the First Nations Challenge will receive:

• Access to skills clinics and competitive games
• A branded tee or reversible singlet
• A small lunch
• A ticket to the Illawarra Hawks Indigenous Round Game vs Sydney Kings at 8:00 PM

The event is expected to draw 120 young athletes (60 male and 60 female), along with their families and community members. The First Nations Challenge is a milestone in promoting basketball participation among First Nations youth in the Illawarra and South Coast regions. By celebrating Aboriginal talent and culture, Basketball NSW hopes to inspire the next generation of Indigenous athletes while reinforcing their connection to their cultural roots.

Following the day’s basketball activities, participants will be guests at the Illawarra Hawks vs Sydney Kings Indigenous Round game, where they can witness professional athletes in action and continue to feel inspired by the game they love. Additional tickets for parents and family members will be available for purchase. More information to come. 

Illawarra Hawks, CEO, Stu Taggart shared his excitement about the initiative.

“We’re thrilled to be part of the Basketball NSW’s First Nations Challenge. This event is about more than just basketball—it’s a chance to highlight the incredible talent and cultural pride within our First Nations communities here in the Illawarra.”

“The Hawks are committed to fostering development both on and off the court, and we’re proud to be working alongside Basketball NSW and the Local and NSW Aboriginal Land Council to provide a day of empowerment, mentorship, and celebration.”

The 2024 First Nations Challenge promises to be a landmark event, celebrating the talent, resilience, and cultural pride of first nation youth across NSW. Basketball NSW looks forward to a day of sports, community, and culture, and encourages all eligible athletes to take part in this inspiring event.

Registrations are now open: 

Click HERE to register (FEMALE) 60 spots open
Click HERE to register (MALE) 60 spots open

First Nations Challenge Details:
Date: Saturday 16th November
Time: 9:00am-3:00pm
Venue: Illawarra Sports Stadium, Fred Finch Park South West, 22 Hooka Creek Rd, Berkeley NSW 2506
Age Groups: Girls & Boys – U13/U15s (Born 2009-2011) that identify as Indigenous.
Cost: FREE

NBL Game Information:
Tip-off: 8:00pm
Venue: WIN Sports & Entertainment Centre, Corner Crown &, Harbour St, Wollongong NSW 2500
Ticket Info: Each participant will receive a 1x child ticket. Parents/Family members who also wish to attend will need to purchase their own ticket, please email adam.marjoram@bnsw.com.au. 

For more information on the BNSW First Nations Challenge please get in touch with Basketball NSW or email adam.marjoram@bnsw.com.au