Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said basketball participation is shining like an opal as the NSW Government is investing $1 million in legacy initiatives in partnership with Basketball NSW, with the aim to provide 10,000 girls with the opportunity to participate and be more involved in the sport.
“The skill, athleticism and passion on show at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup will leave a lasting legacy and inspire future generations of Opals players,” Mr Henskens said.
“We’ve seen a 13 per cent increase in the number of children playing basketball in Australia, and as part of FIBA World Cup legacy initiatives, such as the I AM A GIRL program, we hope to encourage more girls and women in NSW to play, referee, coach and officiate basketball.”
Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said more than 4,000 girls have already participated in the program across NSW.
“This tournament, along with other initiatives delivered through the NSW Legacy Program, is providing young girls across the State with strong female role models and awareness of pathways to succeed on an off the court,” Mrs Taylor said.
Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said the FIBA event, which is part of the NSW Government’s 10 World Cups in 10 Years Initiative, has attracted athletes and fans from around the world, providing major economic stimulus for the State.
“We are delivering on our promise to make NSW the major events capital of the Asia Pacific and giving locals and visitors the opportunity to witness the world’s best athletes sports superstars right here in Sydney is key to that,” Mr Franklin said.
Basketball NSW CEO Maria Nordstrom said the FIBA Women’s World Cup provides so much opportunity for everyone, but in particular girls, to experience what it takes to be a player on the world stage.
“The NSW Government’s investment in legacy for the FIBA Women’s World Cup has allowed us to put in place leadership and participation programs for women and girls across the state,” Ms Nordstrom said.
The Legacy Program is supporting the NSW Government’s Strategic Focus on women and girls in sport through the ‘Her Sport Her Way’ program. For more information visit, https://www.bnsw.com.au/about/nsw-legacy-program/.