National Volunteer Week (19–25 May 2025) is Australia’s premier annual celebration of volunteering. It recognises the vital contributions volunteers make to our communities. Volunteering fosters meaningful connections, enriches lives, and helps build stronger, more resilient communities.
The Australian Sports Commission called for nominations to honour volunteers nationwide for their contributions to their communities. Here are our basketball heroes who are making a meaningful impact and helping grow the game at the grassroots level:
Shoana | Karratha Basketball Association | All-Rounder | WA
Shoana is a powerhouse volunteer and the driving force behind Sharks Netball Club. As founder and president, she leads with heart—coaching U13 Girls and Div 3 Women, while also managing teams for Flames Basketball and Karratha Cyclones. If she doesn’t know something, she learns it. Week in, week out, Shoana shows up for her community—supporting players, clubs, and making a real impact through tireless, selfless service.
Kayla | Karratha Basketball Association | Referee | WA
Kayla wears many hats in Karratha’s basketball community—referee rep for Karratha Basketball Association, referee coach, referee, and coach at Burrup Flames Basketball Club. She volunteers to give kids, including her own, the chance to enjoy sport and grow through it. After an injury ended her playing days, Kayla turned to refereeing and now gives back by mentoring others. For Kayla, sport is how this close-knit town becomes family—and she's proud to help keep that community strong.
Nathaniel | Karratha Basketball Association | All-Rounder | WA
Nathaniel is Vice President of Karratha Basketball Association and President of Northern Spirit Basketball Club. A dad of four, he's also been involved in netball, AFL, soccer, and rugby. For Nathaniel, volunteering is about giving back and creating opportunities for the next generation—just like others did for him. He sees sport as the heart of the community, where kids grow, families connect, and everyone belongs.
Aaron | Karratha Cyclones | All-Rounder | WA
Aaron is a dedicated volunteer who plays a key role in connecting our community through sport. As coach of the Karratha Cyclones Under 14 Girls and Northern Spirit Basketball Club’s Under 12 Girls Div 1 and Under 14 Girls Div 1 teams, he develops young athletes and fosters their growth. Aaron also serves as Assistant Coach for the Under 14 Boys WA Country HPDC team, demonstrating his commitment to players at all levels. His passion, leadership, and unwavering support for basketball in our region make him a volunteer who truly makes a positive impact.
Robyn | Eastern Hills Basketball Association | Competition Coordinator | SA
Robyn has been at the helm of our Inclusive Basketball Program (IBP) for over 15 years, helping individuals with physical or mental disabilities enjoy basketball in an inclusive, non-competitive environment. Under her leadership, the program expanded from two to four teams. Robyn’s passion for inclusivity extends beyond our organisation, as she actively contributes to the growth of similar programs across South Australia. Her dedication to providing a safe, welcoming space for athletes to engage in sports has made a lasting difference in our community.
Tim | Norths Basketball Club | Coach | ACT
Reflecting on his own sporting journey, Tim is grateful for the volunteers who gave him the chance to play. Now, as a basketball coach, he gives back by creating a positive space where all kids can grow, regardless of ability. Tim finds it rewarding to see them build skills, confidence, and friendships. He values connecting with both kids and parents to understand what drives each child. For Tim, coaching is more than sport – it’s about community, life lessons, and being part of something bigger
Marlene | Basketball Canberra | Volunteer | ACT
I have been involved in basketball for over 50 years with Basketball ACT taking on various roles such as an elite player, coach, official, referee coach, and volunteer roles. I transitioned into more of an educational role, focusing on mentoring younger referees. This aspect of my involvement has been incredibly rewarding, as I find great joy in helping others develop their skills and grow in the sport. I am dedicated to contributing to improving and building a better future for basketball.
Roshan | All Saints Basketball Club | Founder | VIC
Roshan is the founder and driving force behind All Saints Basketball and Netball Club, established in 2010 to promote community connection through sport. He is passionate about inclusion, diversity, and making sports accessible for all. Roshan leads with the club’s motto, “Community victory through harmony,” and shares his values widely through mentoring, train-the-trainer sessions, and community advocacy. He introduced programs like free sports for children, the MVP (Most Valuable Parent) award, and youth development hubs. A proactive and respected leader, Roshan continues to shape a kinder, more connected community through his tireless volunteer efforts.
Tanya | Belvedere Breakers Inc. | President | VIC
Tanya has volunteered at Belvedere Breakers Basketball Club for 9 years. In that time she has had many roles from secretary, vice-president to coaching multiple teams and now is President of this local community club. Her leadership at the Belvedere Breakers Basketball Club reflects a commitment to excellence and community engagement. Tanya's dedication to her members and her proactive involvement in club activities underscore her reliability and integrity.
Madelaine | Boneo Basketball Club | President | VIC
Maddy founded Boneo Basketball Club in 2015 and has grown it from just 3 teams to over 40, now supporting 400 players. Until recently, she ran the entire club on her own—registering players, liaising with families, managing teams, and handling all club operations. Maddy is also a coach, referee, teacher, mother of five, and club president. Despite her busy family life, including caring for a child with special needs, she always makes time for the community. She is inclusive, supportive, and deeply committed to giving every child the chance to play. Her impact on local basketball is immense.
Haley | Mansfield & District Basketball Association | Secretary | VIC
Haley, Secretary of Mansfield & District Basketball Association, volunteers for the kids and community. She's passionate about ensuring country kids get the same sporting opportunities as those in the city. For Haley, nothing beats walking into a buzzing stadium full of fun and energy. Her proudest moment is seeing her kids grow up with volunteering as part of life. Her advice? Find your passion - volunteering becomes easy and fun when you're doing what you love.
Ronnel | Hobart Phoenix And Hobart Chargers | All-Rounder | TAS
Ronnel is a true pillar of the Tasmanian basketball community. With over two decades of involvement, he has contributed in countless ways—from refereeing SEABL games to now assisting with media coverage for the Hobart Chargers. Ronnel is a dedicated junior coach at Hobart Phoenix, where he helps develop and inspire the next generation of players. His passion, tireless commitment, and deep involvement across all levels of the sport have made a lasting impact.
Daniel | Dominoes Basketball Club | All-Rounder | TAS
Daniel is an outstanding volunteer who dedicates himself 24/7 to the basketball community. He coaches several teams without any of his own children involved, demonstrating his genuine commitment to supporting and developing all the children at the club. His selfless and tireless efforts have made a significant impact on players, families, and the Dominoes Basketball Club as a whole. In recognition of his dedication and positive influence, Daniel was recently named the Tasmanian Good Sports Volunteer of the year.
Timmy | Glenorchy Basketball Club | Coach | TAS
Tim is a dedicated volunteer who coaches girls, boys, and senior teams, often coaching squads his own children aren’t part of. He has been instrumental in developing the young Perkunas team in Glenorchy Sunday Social Competition, showing his commitment to nurturing talent at all levels. On Saturdays, Tim is frequently seen helping or filling in for junior representative coaches, always ready to support wherever needed. Loved by everyone within the club,
Lisa | South East Basketball Association | Coach | TAS
Lisa is a dedicated and selfless volunteer who gives her time not only to South East Basketball Association (SEBA) but also to various sporting clubs across the community. Her commitment to creating a fun, inclusive, and welcoming environment has made a lasting impact on everyone involved. She is also a qualified statistician and regularly assists at NBL and NBL1 games, showcasing her expertise at the highest levels. Lisa’s passion, reliability, and generosity make her truly invaluable.
Shellie | Southern Wolves Basketball Club And New Norfolk Basketball Club | All-Rounder | TAS
Shellie is a tireless and passionate contributor to basketball in Tasmania, involved in everything from Aussie Hoops to State Teams. This year alone, she has supported Domestic Juniors, Representative Juniors and Seniors, the State Development Program and Tri-Series. She also served as a Team Manager at both the National Championships and the Country Cup. On top of these commitments, she continues her vital role as secretary for both clubs.
Donna | Penguin Basketball Club | All-Rounder | TAS
Donna goes above and beyond in every volunteer role she takes on, bringing a bubbly and welcoming personality that brightens the Penguin Basketball Club. She dedicates countless untold hours washing uniforms, ordering canteen supplies and baking homemade goods to support the canteen. Donna often takes time off work to ensure everything is ready for game days and nights. Donna has also served as the PBA Publicity Officer and managed multiple State teams.
Leanne | Wynard Basketball Club | All-Rounder | TAS
Leanne is a dedicated Committee member who goes above and beyond in her volunteer roles. She not only manages the canteen and oversees stadium bookings with efficiency, but she can also be a familiar face selling raffle tickets along the main street of Wynyard - she will do anything to support the Club. Her commitment to the community is unmatched—no task is ever too big or too small. Whether it's setting up for events, helping with fundraising, or stepping in wherever needed.
Josh | Deloraine Basketball Club | All-Rounder | TAS
Josh is a dedicated and passionate figure in Northern Tasmanian basketball, known for his tireless work developing the game at the grassroots level. As both a coach and administrator, Josh runs junior programs that nurture young talent and promote strong participation across the region. His commitment to the sport is evident in the positive impact he has on players, families, and the wider community.
Trudy | Queenstown Basketball Club | Coach | TAS
Trudy is an exceptional volunteer who consistently goes above and beyond, contributing countless hours outside of rostered duties and regular season timelines. Her unwavering commitment and tireless work behind the scenes have made a lasting impact on the Queenstown Basketball Association. Trudy has been recognised multiple times with the Club’s prestigious Anne Parsons Memorial Award, which is presented each season to a committee member who makes an outstanding contribution.
Janelle | Smithton Basketball Club | All-Rounder | TAS
Janelle is the heartbeat of the Smithton Basketball Club. As club treasurer and secretary, she keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes, but her contribution goes far beyond the paperwork. Janelle volunteers her time on the door for every home game and is always the first to put her hand up to help cater events or support community functions for the Saints. Her dedication, reliability, and willingness to go the extra mile make her an invaluable part of the club.
Olivia | St Helens Basketball Association | All-Rounder | TAS
Olivia has been a dedicated and passionate contributor to basketball for many years. Starting her journey at just 11 years old, she has served as a player, coach, referee, and administrator. Olivia has also worked as Referee Coordinator for the Launceston Basketball Association and has long contributed to Basketball Tasmania. In 2022, she was honoured as Basketball Tasmania’s Administrator of the Year. Olivia now serves as President of St Helens Basketball Association.
