In a major step forward for regional sport, Geelong United Basketball, Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association, and Surfcoast Basketball Association have joined forces for this years’ Koorr Koorr Ngitji annual tournament.
This strategic partnership promises to redefine the basketball landscape throughout the Greater Geelong region, with teams far and wide Coming Together (Waddawurrung: Koorr Koorr Ngitji) in this festival of basketball.
This dynamic collaboration unites three passionate basketball communities under a shared mission: to grow the sport, strengthen development pathways, and deliver a more inclusive and connected experience for players, coaches, and families.
“This partnership is about more than basketball—it’s about building a stronger, more connected sporting community,” said Geelong United Basketball CEO, Mark Neeld. “Together, we’re laying the foundation for long-term success and opportunity across the region.”
Bellarine Peninsula Basketball Association General Manager Nick Stamatopoulos shared:
“We’re excited to be part of this year’s tournament. Kids love playing in tournaments, and being able to support one right in our own backyard just felt like the right thing to do. This is a step in the right direction for all three associations to work together in the best interests of basketball across the region.”
Leon Sayers, President of the Surfcoast Basketball Association added:
“The Surfcoast Basketball Association is proud to play a pivotal role in this new collaboration. Our thriving and passionate community brings a unique energy to this alliance, and we look forward to uniting our collective strengths to create unparalleled opportunities for every player across the region. This partnership is a testament to the growth of our sport and a significant win for our entire community.”
Over the course of the tournament weekend, teams will play a minimum of four games against other VJBL clubs, country associations and community teams from across the nation, with this alliance set to deliver immediate benefits through shared programs, joint events, and coordinated development strategies.
Looking ahead, the partnership aims to expand talent pathways, enhance facilities, and raise the profile of basketball across the region.
PHOTO: Monika Berry. L to R: Surfcoast’s Rebecca Lewis, Bellarine’s Nick Stamatopoulos, GUB’s Courtney Burke, Surfcoast’s Matthew Hughes & GUB’s Emily Todorov.
