United & Trojan supporting Indigenous basketball ahead of 36ers clash

Melbourne United is excited to announce that thanks to our major sponsor Trojan Tools, the club will bring 40 young Indigenous basketball players and their families from Shepparton to participate in our gameday on Sunday 13th of October against the Adelaide 36ers.

Courtesy of United and Trojan, the young hoopers from the Yorta Yorta Turtles will take a bus together to the game, where they will participate in a pre-game clinic out on the John Cain Arena court before they take in the experience of a Melbourne United home game.

After the game, the group will take part in an exclusive Q&A with Melbourne United players.

The experience, which has been organised in conjunction with Rick Baldwin and the Koorie Basketball Academy, is one that he believes has the potential to change lives.

“A lot of these kids don’t ever get to do these sorts of things. It’s something they’re not going to forget for a very long time, for a lot of them this will be their first experience with professional basketball,” Baldwin explained.

“For United’s sponsor Trojan, to want to get out within the community and make a difference is special.

“It’s about being inclusive, it’s about these kids being able to see elite sport and know that they are capable of doing this, that it’s not out of reach because of their background or where they live.”

This was echoed by Yorta Yorta Turtles coach Perchy Dryden.

“About 90% of these kids have never been to an NBL game and they’re over the moon to be able to get this opportunity. It’s a really big deal for them.

“I know how excited they are because every day they’re asking, ‘how many more days?’

“I think it creates a really strong connection between the kids and the club and gives them something to aspire to be. They’ll be able to see it right in front of their eyes and know that this is a level they can get to if they work hard enough.”

When looking at the potential to put together such a special experience, Trojan Tools Marketing Communications Manager, Genevieve Bolzon said  they were inspired to do whatever they could to make the trip possible.

“When Melbourne United approached us with this concept, we immediately wanted to be involved and bring it to life. 

“By facilitating this trip, we hope to create a memorable experience for the young players, one which will inspire them to continue pursuing their passion for basketball, aim high and believe in their potential. 

“Being able to give back to local communities and drive initiatives like this one, is incredibly rewarding for us and we couldn’t be prouder to together with United, make this special day a reality.”

Click the links to learn more about the Koorie Academy and Trojan Tools.