A Runway for Growth

Our work is guided by three strategic pillars, each designed to deliver meaningful and measurable outcomes across the Illawarra and beyond. Below is a runway of programs and initiatives the Foundation aims to develop and deliver as it grows.

Delivering basketball-led engagement, education, and wellbeing initiatives

Using the reach and profile of the Hawks, we create programs that inspire young people, strengthen communities, and promote positive wellbeing outcomes.

Delivering basketball-led engagement, education and wellbeing initiatives.

1. Community & Connection

Hawks in Schools

Players, coaches and staff visiting schools to deliver sessions focused on:

  • leadership,
  • resilience,
  • teamwork,
  • healthy lifestyles,
  • positive choices.

Community Clinics

Free or low-cost basketball clinics delivered in local suburbs, regional towns and priority communities.

Mental Health & Wellbeing

Using basketball as a platform to discuss: confidence, wellbeing, belonging, and resilience.

Anti-Bullying Program

School and community presentations promoting respect, inclusion and positive behaviour.

Community Connections

Scheduled visits to: hospitals, disability services, aged care facilities, and youth centres.

CALD & Inclusion Basketball Days

Programs engaging multicultural communities and creating belonging through sport.

CALD = Culturally and Linguistically Diverse

Indigenous Engagement

Partnership programs supporting Aboriginal communities through basketball and leadership.

Holiday Camps

School holiday engagement activities combining fun, learning and basketball.

Supporting access, development and progression for players, coaches and officials.

2. Pathways & Participation.

Access to Play Fund

Scholarships and financial support for: registration fees, uniforms, travel, and equipment.

Next Gen Hawks Academy

Development program for talented junior athletes focused on: skill development, mindset, education, and leadership.

Girls & Women in Basketball

Targeted participation and pathway initiatives for females in the game.

Regional Talent Pathways

Scouting, clinics and development programs across outer regions including Shoalhaven, Southern Highlands, South Coast, and Regional NSW.

Improving the quality and accessibility of community basketball facilities.

3. Facilities & Infrastructure.

Community Court Upgrade

Support resurfacing, lighting, hoops and improvements to local courts.

Outdoor Court Activation

Develop or enhance outdoor courts as free access community spaces.

Safe Spaces Initiative

Improve lighting, security and accessibility at community venues.

Inclusive Facility Upgrades

Accessible toilets, ramps, changerooms and inclusive design improvements.

Regional Hub Advocacy

Support planning and funding for improved facilities across growth regions.

School Court Partnerships

Shared-use agreements and upgrades with schools.

Sustainability Projects

Solar, LED lighting and environmentally efficient facility improvements.

Equipment Grants Program

Support local clubs and schools with: balls, scoreboards, training equipment, and storage.

How Programs Will Be Selected?

  • Community Focus

    Community Need
    We prioritise initiatives that address the most urgent social and wellness requirements of our region.


    Strategic Partnerships
    We collaborate with local government, schools, and corporate partners to maximize our collective reach.

  • Resource Management

    Available Funding
    Programs are activated as sustainable funding pathways and donations are secured.

    Regional Reach
    We ensure our programs extend into the Shoalhaven, Southern Highlands, South Coast, and Regional NSW.

  • Impact & Scale

    Measurable Impact
    We only invest in programs where we can track, measure, and report on genuine social change.

    Ability to Scale Sustainably
    We build programs with a long-term vision that can grow effectively and responsibly over time.

Our Growth Approach.

  • Year 1

    Launch pilot programs and community engagement initiatives.

  • Years 2–3

    Expand participation pathways and regional outreach.

  • Years 3–5

    Deliver major infrastructure partnerships and long-term impact programs.

Help Bring These Programs to Life

Your support helps the Foundation develop and deliver its community initiatives.

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