The Goorbils are the first ever all-abilities basketball team for Mitchell Shire, and they are training under Coach Simon Fox for a debut match against the Benalla ‘Breakers.’
The first game will take place on Monday, September 16, at the Benalla Basketball Stadium at 6.15pm.
Mitchell Shire Council, Nexus Primary Health, and Healthy Kids Mitchell have worked together to create a voice for the all-abilities community, including those diagnosed with a physical or intellectual disability.
Diversity and Inclusion Officer with Nexus Primary Health and Team Coordinator Wendy Kelly said the team has been founded on the principles of diversity and community spirit.
“By focusing on what athletes can achieve rather than limitations, all-abilities sports foster an empowering environment where participants gain confidence, improve their skills, and form meaningful connections with others,” she said.
“Everyone is welcome to join in as a player, spectator, volunteer, or to come on board as a supporter.”
Goulburn Valley Gangurru Parasports and Inclusion is led by Fox, who is supported by Grace Dean as Assistant Coach, and Judeline and Jasmin Flores to facilitate the development of the Goorbils.
“My team is an all-inclusive sporting and disability empowerment registered charity through the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC), and we’re disability led,” he said.
“Our concept is to further extend healthy minds and healthy bodies by supporting improved psychosocial connections, as well as personal development.”
Valley Sport is another regional non-for-profit organisation cheering for the Goorbils, and they supported them with a series of ‘come-and-try’ programs where participants played eight different sports, with basketball a clear favourite.
The Goorbil’s uniforms have been sponsored by Seymour Exercise Physiology.
Training is held every Monday at 4pm at the Seymour Sports and Aquatic Centre.
For more information, call Wendy Kelly between Monday to Thursday on 1300 77 33 52.
