Basketball thriving in Maningrida
The Maningrida Basketball grand final brought the community together through sport, teamwork and local leadership.
The Maningrida Basketball grand final, led by West Arnhem Regional Council and funded through the Active Regional and Remote Communities program, showcased the positive impact of government-supported sport in regional communities.
Face paint, streamers and custom-made t-shirts could be seen far and wide on Friday 24 October, as the Maningrida community prepared for one of its biggest days in the calendar year, basketball grand final day.
As the sun set over the Arafura Sea, hundreds of people made their way down to the basketball court to watch the grand finalists battle it out for the ultimate prize.
Sparks win women’s title
First up was Sparks vs Burduk, the final 2 sides standing from a 12 team women’s competition.
The level was high, and the atmosphere electric from the outset.
The 2 sides went back and forth in a close encounter, but it was the Sparks who came out on top, lifting the trophy with a 47 to 38 victory.
Junior 3-point contest steals the show
In between the women’s and men’s finals, it was the juniors' time to shine.
A 3-point competition drew 76 participants and was well supported by the crowd.
The next generation of basketballers put on a show on the big stage, draining threes and celebrating accordingly.
Flips and high fives had the crowd on their feet.
Grizzlies hold off Jetz in men's final
The men’s final saw the Jetz take on the Grizzlies. The Grizzlies got off to a hot start and despite a Jetz comeback, they were able to hold on for a 32 to 28 victory.
The game was played in great spirits with some unbelievable skill on display.
After the final whistle, premiers and runners up were awarded medals and most valuable players (MVPs) were chosen by community leaders.
It was a great celebration and showcase of community spirit. This brought an incredible season of basketball to an end after 22 weeks of competition.
A season driven by community
This season showcased how community-led sporting competitions can bring people together, build local leadership and positively influence the lives of Territorians across the region.
The strength of the program was reflected in both the scale and dedication of local involvement, including:
- 24 adult teams
- 5 junior sides
- 250 to 300 weekly participants
- 21 volunteers
- a locally led committee elected to manage decisions and scheduling.
Locals continually gave their time to umpire and score each week, and the atmosphere created each night reflected that commitment.
More than just a game
Not only did the participants benefit. The three-nights-a-week competition provided a space for community elders, family members and children to gather and support their teams and loved ones.
Sport is a lifeblood in community and the people of Maningrida showed how meaningful it can be to the lives of so many.
Now it's time for footy season!
