Basketball South Australia is proud to announce the historic milestone of sending its first-ever South Australian wheelchair basketball team to compete in the 2025 Foot Locker Under 18 & Junior Wheelchair National Championships. The event will take place from April 9 to April 13 at the South Pine Sports Complex in Brendale, Queensland.
This prestigious national tournament, formerly known as the Kevin Coombs Cup, brings together the best young wheelchair basketball athletes from across Australia. It provides an opportunity for athletes who meet the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) classification criteria to showcase their skills at the highest junior level.
The inclusion of a South Australian team marks a significant step forward in the state’s commitment to growing and supporting wheelchair basketball. The squad has been training rigorously in preparation for this milestone event, and Basketball South Australia is excited to see them take on the best in the country.
This talented squad features athletes who have previously represented Australia at the junior and senior levels, including Kane Downie, Alexander Blackmore, and Cooper Spillane as part of the Spinners, and Katelin Gunn as part of the Gliders.
Head Coach: David Gould
Team Manager: Lucinda Bueti
- Hayden Lea
- Cooper Spillane
- Ellie McInerney
- Alexander Blackmore
- Katelin Gunn
- Brooke Joppich
- Kane Downie
- Isobella Nitschke
Basketball South Australia CEO Tim Brenton expressed enthusiasm about the team’s participation, stating, “I am proud to see South Australia represented at the Australian Junior Championships for wheelchair basketball, the Kevin Coombs Cup. This is a fantastic milestone for our basketball community and a testament to the growth of our sport.” It also aligns with the development of our wheelchair framework. Having Paralympian David Gould coaching the team adds a wealth of experience and inspiration for our young athletes.” Brenton continued, “I look forward to seeing them compete and represent our state with pride.”
The championships will provide a platform for South Australia’s athletes to gain valuable experience, compete at an elite level, and inspire future generations of wheelchair basketball players in the state.
Basketball South Australia encourages the community to get behind the team as they prepare for this exciting journey. Stay tuned for updates on their progress and achievements throughout the tournament.