Superstars: Benalla's All-Abilities basketball team.
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She shoots, she scores, and she celebrates with a hilarious dance that keeps a smile on everyone’s face — especially hers.
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When it comes to basketball training, Holly gives it everything she’s got and more as part of the Benalla All-Abilities Basketball Team.
She’s one of dozens of players who head to the home of the Benalla Breakers every week to train with coaches, develop skills and socialise with teammates.
The all-abilities squad features players living with various disabilities and allows them to play community sport in a safe, friendly and competitive environment.
The training has been hugely successful for the team after it recently travelled to Bendigo for its first game, which resulted in a win against the Bendigo Braves’ all-ability side.
On the team: Holly is known for her dances which she performs to celebrate scoring.
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It’s still early days for the club, but its popularity has soared in Benalla and surrounding Victorian communities.
Recently, Benalla’s APM Employment Services, which supports people living with disability into lasting employment through its offices in Benalla and Wangaratta, provided team tops, APM caps, drink bottles and sunnies as the official team sponsor.
The team’s popularity follows the recent movie Champions, which features a similar all-abilities basketball squad having a profound impact on its coach, played by Woody Harrelson, and the community.
Coach Shane Richardson said the team had a great spirit and some skilled players, and they hoped to compete in more events soon.
APM Benalla business manager Janelle Dinnie said the basketball club was a fantastic opportunity for young people living with disability to join in and take part in a local sport.
“The club has been incredibly popular, and you can see how much it means to the players who come here every week and take part,” Ms Dinnie said.
“They get so much out of it, and it’s a real way to engage in their local community. We’re so proud to support them, and we look forward to seeing the team in action soon.”
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