Ford Awards celebrate character at the 2026 Foot Locker U14 Club Champs

Recognising the players, coaches and team managers who set the standard and have an impact beyond the scoreboard.

The Ford Dealer Network and Basketball Australia were proud to recognise and celebrate sportsmanship, leadership and character both on and off the court at the 2026 Foot Locker Under-14 Club Championships.

Across six days in Willetton, Western Australia, the Ford Dealer Network acknowledged athletes and team staff from clubs around the country who embody the values of Australian basketball through five award categories: Built Tough, Building Together, Community, Beyond the Court and All-Rounder.

The Built Tough Award recognised athletes whose performance and behaviour embodied resilience, grit and relentless commitment.

The 2026 recipients were Zachary Dyska (Canberra) and Tsz Yau Alesia Mok (Brisbane Capitals).

The Building Together Award recognised athletes who led by putting their team first, moving others forward and showing up when their teammates needed them most.

This year's recipients were Dusty Elliot (Willetton) and Molly Illingworth (Northern Tigers).

The Community Award celebrated individuals who put the basketball community first through outstanding sportsmanship, inclusivity and support.

The award went to Canberra head coach Nicole Johnson and Sydney Comets head coach Melissa Thomson.

The Beyond the Court Award recognised team managers who went above and beyond to support their teams throughout the championships.

Recipients were Katie Blondel (Knox Team Manager) and Amanda Ryall (Canberra Team Manager).

The All-Rounder Award celebrated athletes who contributed to their team's success on and off the court, strengthening team culture through versatility, commitment and the true spirit of the competition.

This year's recipients were Franklin Ho (South West Metro Pirates) and Chloe McGorm (Perry Lakes Hawks).

These awards recognise the people who lead by example, lift their teams and communities, and represent the values of Australian basketball.

Basketball Australia thanks the Ford Dealer Network for its continued support of the Foot Locker Under-14 Club Championships.

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