Western Australia’s customer-owned P&N Bank is proud to partner with the Perth Wildcats to offer 100 young Indigenous basketball players the opportunity to watch their heroes in action at the NBL’s 2023 Indigenous round game on Saturday 4 November.
Indigenous Perth Wildcats player Keanu Pinder (pictured) presented the young players from the Koordoormitj Institute Grassroots Basketball program (operated by Koya Aboriginal Corporation) in Midland with their tickets at a special event on Monday. One lucky ticket recipient will even get the chance to step onto the RAC Arena court to present the match ball to the referees.
With 70% of the children in the program identifying as Indigenous and 30% being from a range of diverse cultures and nationalities, it’s incredible to see the impact Koordoormitj’s grassroots basketball program has in supporting and connecting the local community.
The basketball program is run by Cheryl Kickett-Tucker, the first Aboriginal player for the WAIS Rockets, now known as Perth Lynx.
Cheryl said “On behalf of the Koordoormitj Institute Grassroots Basketball program and Koya Aboriginal Corporation, we really appreciate this generous gesture from P&N Bank to provide these Perth Wildcats tickets to some of our budding players.
“Going to a basketball game is not something our kids have the chance to do often, and we hope seeing the Wildcats in action will inspire our players to see what may be possible.
“Our basketball program aims to provide our community with a welcoming family environment and social connection by coming together to play a game these kids love.”
P&N Bank’s General Manager, Angela Newland said P&N were thrilled to be able to provide an opportunity for these up-and-coming basketball superstars to watch their heroes live in action.
“We believe in supporting those needing a step-up, bigger voice or helping hand to achieve their goals,” Ms Newland said.
“As advocates for reconciliation, we are extremely proud to support the Wildcats during the NBL’s Indigenous round game.
“It’s great to see P&N’s logo featuring on the Indigenous round Wildcats uniform, which has been designed by Yilka (Wongutha)/Noongar/Yamatji local artist Rosie Paine.”
The NBL Indigenous round is a highlight each season, showcasing Indigenous art and culture from around the country.