Young female basketballers will learn skills beyond the court, complete qualifications and be mentored by leading players as recipients of the inaugural She Hoops Leadership and Confidence Scholarship.
Across two intakes next year, 62 teenagers will take part in the holistic-focused, fully-funded scholarship which will include resilience, mindset, confidence and leadership with EQ Minds as well as Community and Club coaching accreditations and an introductory official cause.
The scholarships were officially launched today with the support of Federal Minister for Sport the Hon Anika Wells MP who praised She Hoops for offering tangible development and mentorship opportunities for young women.
“She Hoops is a crucial resource to developing our next female leaders on and off court so we have more Lauren Jackson’s and more Abby Cubillo’s.
“Women’s sport is growing rapidly and the Albanese Government is committed to ensuring there are more females in leadership roles.
“Put simply, we need more women making decisions for more women.”
Jackson says the new program is one of a kind.
“She Hoops is my passion, being able to spend so much time with young girls all over Australia hasbeen such a highlight for me. To be able to provide scholarships has been the ultimate dream, I know what these girls are capable of and now they have an incredible opportunity to become the leaders of the future.”
Recipients will also participate in a three-day camp at the Australian Institute of Sport and be mentored by WNBL players and Australian Opals including Tess Madgen, Kristy Wallace, Nyadiew Puoch, Abby Cubillo and Steph Reid.
WNBL player and mentor Abby Cubillo says the scholarship will empower young women to lead and excel both on and off the court.
“I feel super honoured to be a mentor. To be identified by people like LJ (Jackson) to give guidance and advice to the younger generation and share my own journey is special and I’m excited to be part of it.
“The idea of the scholarship being a holistic program, and not just basketball, with leadership and confidence components is so important for young girls as well as the resources and connections to the athletes is something I wish had access to growing up in Darwin.”
Applications are open for girls aged 15 to 18 who have a demonstrated interest in basketball beyond playing, in coaching, officiating or administration.
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