THE PROWL
ELTHAM WILDCATS BASKETBALL
CEO MESSAGE
Richard Irving
Dear Wildcats Community
I hope everyone is doing well.
It has certainly been a fast and furious start to 2026 within our Wildcats community.
Our 2026 Tournament has come and gone. It was the biggest ever with nearly 2,000 teams and over 18,000 players participating. A huge thanks to our volunteers and staff who worked hard behind the scenes to bring our tournament to life. Thanks also to the players, coaches, referees and parents who support our tournament year after year, we truly appreciate your involvement.
Our Junior Domestic Summer season finished just before Easter. We had 156 Wildcat teams participating in grand finals with 84 Wildcat teams winning their grand finals. Well done to everyone involved and we now look forward to the 2026 Winter season.
For the Winter season we are trialling a pilot ‘squad’ training program across selected U9/U12 teams. This pilot program is an opportunity to test a new way of training, and we will assess the pilot program over the course of the Winter season.
As with all new initiatives, there will be an element of adjustment and change for both coaches and players, but we believe strongly that we will see accelerated benefits to the players game play and skill development through this squad training format.
We are currently working with Eltham High School about replacing the flooring on courts 2 and 3, as they near the end of ‘useful life’. This is a large project, which will see the two courts unavailable for up to 8 weeks. At this stage we are targeting August to commence this project. As we have more information, we will keep the Wildcats community informed.
We are currently undertaking a feasibility study on options to build a new stadium to cater for our growth over the next 5-10 years. A huge shout out to Ben Duckworth who is already assisting us with architectural support pro bono – we really appreciate your guidance Ben. We are now seeking anyone from the Wildcats community who has experience in ‘town planning’, who might be comfortable to assist with some planning guidance pro-bono.
Thanks Richard
PRESIDENT MESSAGE
Peter Meehan
With the Summer Junior Domestic season coming to an end, I wanted to take the time to thank Paula Hogan for her significant contribution to our Junior Domestic program, which is the envy of other Clubs.
Our Junior Domestic program has grown year after year, which is a testament to Paula’s dedication in guiding the Wildcats Junior Domestic program through the complexities of managing more than 350 teams.
Whilst Paula has stepped away from overseeing the Wildcats Junior Domestic program and from the General Committee, you will still see Paula in the Wildcats community as a coach and supporter.
On behalf of the Wildcats community, I want to thank Paula for everything she has given to our Domestic program and more broadly the Wildcats community.
Eltham Dandenong Junior Basketball Tournament 2026
Our 2026 tournament has come and gone!
This year’s tournament was bigger and better with overwhelmingly positive feedback across the board.
A huge thanks to our volunteers and staff who worked hard behind the scenes to bring our tournament to life.
Thanks also to the players, coaches, referees and parents who support our tournament year after year, we truly appreciate your involvement.
We look forward to an even bigger and better tournament in 2027.
“Itisalwaysanextremelyrewardingexperienceforourathletesandwegreatly appreciateeverythingyourteamdidtoensurethiswasthecase.” -
Interstate Club
2027/28 TOURNAMENT
Our tournament dates for 2027 and 2028 have now been confirmed.
With public holidays falling on a Tuesday in 2027 and a Wednesday in 2028, the decision has been made to schedule the tournament on the weekend prior to the public holiday period.
The confirmed dates are:
22–25 January 2027
21–24 January 2028
The tournament continues to be a key event on the calendar, and strong participation is anticipated across both years.
Further details regarding registrations will be released later this year.
New Website Launch Update
The Eltham Wildcats are pleased to share that the club’s new website is nearing completion following an extended period of redevelopment and refinement during the clubs internal review.
Now just a few weeks away from launch, the website is entering its final stage, with only minor adjustments and finishing touches remaining.
The new platform is designed to deliver an improved user experience, making it
easier for our community to access information, stay updated, and engage with the club.
We look forward to unveiling a website that reflects the club’s identity and the hard work behind its development. We encourage you to keep an eye on the club’s social media channels for updates as the launch approaches.
By the next edition, the new website is expected to be live and in use.
Eltham Wildcats Merchandise Store
Did you know the Eltham Wildcats have launched a brand-new online store for all your non-uniform gear?
Whether you’re after a branded hoodie, t-shirt, puffer jacket, or training singlet, there’s a huge range to browse, making it easy for our commuinty get their hands on official Wildcats merchandise.
Powered by iAthletic, the store offers a smooth shopping experience.
How to Access the Wildcats Online Store:
Through the club website by clicking the “Wildcat Store” button on the homepage
Via the iAthletic website by navigating to the IA Clubs section and selecting the Wildcats logo
Through the direct store link, available across the club’s digital platforms
The Wildcats welcome feedback from the community as the range continues to develop.
Suggestions, requests or general comments can be sent to info@elthamwildcats.net.au.
BROWSE OUR RANGE
MAY AND JUNE
HOURS
OPENING
Uniform Store
May:
Special for Junior Domestic Season Uniform Sales
Friday, 1st May - 4pm - 8pm
Saturday, 2nd May - 7:30am - 3pm
Regular Hours
Friday, 8th May - 4pm - 7:30pm
Saturday, 9th May - 9am - 3pm
June:
Regular Hours
Friday, 5th June - 4pm - 7:30pm
Saturday, 6th June - 9am - 3pm
If you require a uniform outside these times, please contact Albi at uniforms@elthamwildcats.net.au.
Also all times are posted on our Socials so please check Eltham Wildcats Instagram Page if you are looking for updated times.
A reminder that the Uniform store is located at Eltham High Schools Basketball Stadium. Address: 30-60 Withers Way, Eltham VIC 3095
Summer 25/26 Season Junior Domestic Competition
Wrap-Up
March saw the end of the EDJBA Summer 25/26 season, and what a fantastic season it was. Across the competition, a total of 349 teams took to the court, with 156 teams earning a place in the Grand Finals, an incredible achievement that highlights the strength and depth of our program. Of those, 84 teams walked away as premiers, capping off a memorable season of effort, teamwork, and development.
We’re also pleased to share our Junior Domestic Award nominations below. These awards - Most Determined, Most Improved, and Team Player - are selected by each team’s coach and recognise not just performance, but attitude, growth, and contribution to the team environment. Thank you to the coaches who submitted nominations and helped celebrate the efforts of their players.
A sincere thank you goes out to all of our volunteer coaches, team managers, and families. Your time, commitment, and support are absolutely integral to the success of our program.
Winter 2026 Season
Now Underway
The Winter 2026 EDJBA season is officially underway, with Round 1 of grading tipping off on the 2nd May. We’re excited to see teams back on court and wish everyone the best for the season ahead.
Important Reminders
Team Lists & Registrations
If coaches, players, or team managers are not appearing on the team list in the iPad system, please:
• Ensure their details are entered correctly on the day
• Contact your Age Group Convenor to advise of the issue
This may be due to an oversight in PlayHQ allocations. In some cases, coaches and team managers may need to complete a registration form.
Fill-In Players
If your team has fewer than five players available for a game:
• Submit a fill-in player request form (no more than one week prior to the game)
• Ideally, please submit by Wednesday to allow us time for coordination.
While the club will do its best to source a suitable fill-in, this cannot be guaranteed. Please refer to the eligibility guidelines provided in the accompanying table
Fill in Player Form
Code of Conduct
A reminder to all players, parents, coaches, and volunteers that participation in the season is subject to adherence to the Code of Conduct. We thank everyone for continuing to promote a positive and respectful basketball environment.
We wish all teams a successful and enjoyable start to the Winter season.
Junior Domestic Competition Awards 2025 season
Congratulations to the athletes who received awards for the 2025 Junior Domestic Competition season. These awards are selected by each team’s coach in recognition of outstanding performance, effort, and contribution throughout the season.
Most Determined
Kiera Monigatti
Adrian Darcy
Veronica Wardle
Mia Matthews
Abigail Watson
Bryce Hards
Jai Derrick
Presten Moroney
Axel Colson
James Sampson
Tom Blair
Cooper Bertram
Hudson Gatenby
Tex Carter
Abigail Scannell
Evan Turner
Zack Tabacco
Lavina Hu
Cooper Thorley
Sophie Cusack
Thomas Gatenby
Thomas Lord
Jessica Jubb
Zane Baker
Olivia Darcy
Lincoln Ballenhagen
Willow Motton
Bhraidin Buxton
Duncan Heerkens
Evan Last
Oleg Tsyganov
Coby Hosking
Jagger Manders
William Harrison
Luke Dwyer
Sebastian Strzebonski
Archie Leal
Hunter Wason
Tarra Kandasamy
Charlotte McLardy
Alicia Sheehy
Thomas Rewell
Jaiden Kincade
Archie Celotti
Callum Bain
Isla Mercieca
Noah
Tyler Regan
Mitchell Sargeant
Ruben van den Berg
Sienna Campbell
Edward Atkin
Xander Payne
Zack Gosling
Max McCormack
Ethan Kent
Cooper Sargent
Most improved
Matilda Wheeler
Connor O’Brien
Annabel Jansen
Guinevere Lind-
say-McFadyin
Samantha Parker
Sonny McBride
Ashton Pretorius
Oliver Dieckhaus
Harvey Phelan
Tyler Hillman
Ted Norman
Benjamin Ruffel
Harvey Hutchinson
Jacob Allen
Zoe Cameron
Charles Gray
James Woods
Zabou Guillot
Jai Derrick
Maeve Turner
Harry Mina
Remi Salamon
Elka Wells
Damian Jovanovski
Zoe Craven
Bruce Smith
Milla Spithill
Kyle McAllister
Bede Heley
Luke Donough
Luca Bassilios
Brodie Jones
Zac Bygrave
Toby Davis
Maceo Pascal
Zave McMurray
Spencer Skelley
Oscar Hellier
Team Player
Ava Brack
Luke Theologos
Aliyah McCarroll
Samantha Batten
Elaine Su
Jed Stewart
Cooper Thorley
Jake Morrow
Carter Giosis
Harrison MacRae
Isaac Tan
Benjamin Di Meglio
Nate Bygrave
Brodie Gunningham
Greta Rigg
Oliver Corrigan
Felix Turney
Vivian Jones
Ashton Pretorius
Annabelle Antonelli
Paxton Gamble
Charles Toomey
Daisy Baulch
Clancy Woods
Natasha Davies
Jude Waters
Ella Briody
Oscar McQueen
Lachlan Percy
Dominik Moucha
Alfie Wood-Sharples
Cody Hilbert
Oscar Bata
Caelan Cummings
Harry Willson
Anuk De Alwis
Jayden Zhou
Laken Stewart
Mila Eckhardt
Harriet McKirdy
Leshae Walden
Max B
Ruihao Chang
Spencer Loats-Caruso
Ethan Neal
Lucy Brogan
Wesley
Max Miller
Dion Multari
Xavier Cabras
Scarlett Berry
Jacob Wade
Patrick Sharpe
Charlie Brockhouse
Axl Pobjoy
Arlo
Rhys Dall’Oste
Lila Morgan
Lyla Mildren
Emily Hanks
Oliver Allport
Hugo Flick
Kyson Kan
Aydin Reidy
Olivia Haberman
Aiden
Toby Prangley
Aiden Whitehead
Caleb Tucci
Isabelle Blom
Tom Marshall
Luke Bowman
Boston Payne
Spencer Chamberlain
Jackon Deed
Nick chard
Announcements
Junior Domestic Advisory Group
We are seeking interested people in our Wildcats community to join our new Advisory Group.
The Advisory Group replaces the previously formed Junior Domestic Committee. The Advisory Group is being formed to assist with input into the strategy and governance of our growing Junior Domestic program.
Please complete the below form if you are interested in joining the Advisory Group.
Expression of Interest
Town Planning Expert Needed
We are currently undertaking a feasibility study to explore options for a new stadium that will support our growth over the next 5–10 years. A huge thank you to Ben Duckworth, who is generously providing architectural support on a pro bono basis—we greatly appreciate your guidance, Ben.
We are also seeking members of the Wildcats community with experience in town planning who may be willing to offer their expertise and assist with planning guidance on a pro bono basis.
Please contact info@elthamwildcats.net.au if you are interested in helping out.
Join the new Eltham Business Network
We’re inviting business owners and professionals from the Wildcats community to be part of something exciting and local. The Eltham Business Network is a new initiative designed to connect, support, and promote local businesses within our Wildcats family and the wider Eltham community.
If you’re a Wildcats player, parent, or supporter who runs a business, this is your opportunity to gain valuable exposure through digital marketing, cross-promotion, networking events, business-to-business collaborations, and meaningful community initiatives. By joining, you’ll tap into a supportive network that helps grow your business while strengthening the Wildcats community.
Want to be involved? We’re now calling for expressions of interest. This is the first step in building the network, and your input will help shape its future direction.
Register your interest today via the form below.
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
Steven Chadd Commercial Operations Manager
This article provides you, our Wildcats Community, with insights into where the money you contribute, in the form of registration fees, is spent to run our programs.
Firstly, to provide overall context, it is important to understand that the Eltham Wildcats Basketball Club is a ‘not for profit’ organisation. That is, we do not make a profit for ‘profits sake’, and there are no shareholders expecting to benefit from any profit. Our aim is to generate an annual overall 2% surplus from our day-to-day programs, which enables us to operate and to have a small buffer for ”rainy days”.In some years our tournament supports that buffer; in other years we do a little better.
What are the main expenses for the Wildcats?
1. Fees payable for our Wildcats junior domestic teams to participate in the Eastern Districts Junior Basketball Association (EDJBA). We pay team fees per season and match fees per week for each team to participate in this competition.
2. Fees payable for our Wildcats junior representative teams to participate in the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL). We pay significant team fees to Basketball Victoria for each team.
3. Fees payable for our Wildcats teams to participate in the Eastern Development League (EDL). The fees we charge cover the full cost of participating in this competition.
4. Operating expenses related to Montmorency Secondary College and Eltham High School stadiums, which includes:
a. Court Licence Fees, b. Utilities, c. Security, d. Cleaning, e. Maintenance, f. Insurances, g. Equipment
5. Costs associated with renting eight external venues for junior domestic, EDL and representative trainings and matches
6. Operating expenses related to the Wildcats participation in the EDJBA, EDL and VJBL:
a. Cost of referees, b. Cost of Wildcats Support staff
7. Operating expenses related to managing the Wildcats:
a. Office staff wages and on-costs, b. Compliance costs such as Workcover and audit fees, c. Office equipment, d. Overheads, e. Depreciation
8. Expenses related to Junior Pathways, including: a. Coaching support costs, b. Court hire
9. We endeavour to run our canteens and uniform shop at around break-even. This isn’t easy because they mostly open when penalty rates apply, increasing the expense above normal business levels. We see these as a service to our community rather than as a surplus generator.
Summary of budgeted expense for the 2025/26 financial year (Excluding our tournament)
Expense Type 2025/26
Junior domestic expense
Junior representative expense
Junior development expense
Operating expense related to leased stadiums
Rent of external venues
Operating costs for competitions
Office and administration expense
Junior pathways costs
$439,000
$177,000
$12,000
$398,000
$333,000
$1,362,000
$957,000
$406,000
Total $4,084,000
It is important to note that the above costs do not include major works required at Montmorency and Eltham stadiums, for which we are majority responsible. These are funded by a “capital reserve” from our retained surpluses, mainly from our tournament. This includes items such as the new rings and backboards recently installed at Eltham High School, and the upcoming need for a major flooring replacement there. We also need to endeavour to preserve funds for our future growth.
How we budget
In our Business Plan our CEO, Richard Irving, has publicly committed to being transparent about our finances (which are independently audited each financial year, published in our Annual Report, and submitted to Basketball Victoria as part of their association stability checking). It’s therefore important for our Wildcats community to see how your contributions are used.
Unfortunately, the challenges of rising costs will continue to make it difficult for small community-based sporting organisations like ours. There is very little State Government support that is available in this economic environment, and we receive no support at all from local government, unlike local football and cricket clubs.
Every year, as part of our budgeting process, we try to keep fee increases to a minimum, particularly for our Beginners’ programs and our Junior Domestic competitions. We are essentially a junior basketball organisation, and we want to make junior participation as widely accessible as possible. At the same time, if we don’t set fees responsibly then we won’t thrive.
I hope this helps you understand where your money goes.
If you have any queries in relation to this information, please do not hesitate to reach out at info@elthamwildcats.net.au
Powering Adventures: Mont Eltham Auto Electrics & REDARC Electronics
As a proud RED Network member, Mont Eltham Auto Electrics are excited to highlight their strong partnership with REDARC Electronics.
By utilising REDARC high-quality, Australian-engineered components, they deliver reliable vehicle solutions tailored for towing, camping, and four-wheel driving enthusiasts.
From advanced dual battery systems and BCDC chargers to the renowned Tow-Pro electric brake
controllers, every installation is designed and built to perform in Australia’s harshest conditions.
This official partnership between Mont Eltham Auto Electrics and REDARC ensures our customers receive expertly installed systems backed by REDARC’s technical support and decades of innovation, giving them the confidence to tackle off-grid adventures with peace of mind.
What’s ahead for Banyule & Nillumbik’s property market in 2026?
As 2026 progresses, the property market across Banyule and Nillumbik is regaining momentum, though in a more measured and cautious global environment. After a period of uneven growth, confidence is gradually improving, though still shaped by geopolitical uncertainty, inflation pressures, and shifting economic conditionspointing to a year of steady, measured change rather than rapid movement.
Moderate price growth
Property values are continuing to edge higher, with suburbs like Briar Hill, Eaglemont, Eltham, Ivanhoe, Rosanna and Heidelberg maintaining solid demand - particularly for established family homes. However, compared to past cycles, growth is expected to remain controlled as buyers stay price-sensitive amid cost-of-living pressures and global economic uncertainty.
Interest rates and borrowing conditions
One of the biggest influences on the property market this year will be borrowing costs. Following rate cuts in 2025, borrowing conditions have improved, but the outlook remains cautious. With global inflation and economic instability still influencing banks, further cuts appear unlikely. Instead, a “higher-for-longer” rate environment may persist, keeping borrowing capacity somewhat constrained.
Population growth and demand
Victoria’s population growth continues to underpin housing demand. While migration has eased from its peak, it remains strong by historical standards - particularly in established, lifestyle-focused areas like Banyule and Nillumbik.
Supply constraints, new development & infrastructure
A persistent housing shortage remains a defining feature of Australia’s property market. Local planning changes are likely to influence how new housing supply is delivered, especially around key transport hubs and activity centres. Banyule and Nillumbik remain among Melbourne’s most desirable and wellconnected regions, with strategic investment in transport, sporting facilities, schools and healthcare continuing to enhance their appeal and support long-term growth.
Rental market tightness
Rents in Banyule and Nillumbik are expected to remain high. While Melbourne’s growth hasn’t been as steep as other
capital cities, tight vacancy rates continue to support higher rents. For residents, this means rental yields are likely to stay firm - good news for investors but a continued challenge for tenants.
Affordability constraints
Despite growth forecasts, affordability remains a core challenge in 2026. Even with modest price increases, home prices remain significantly higher than local incomes, and saving for a deposit continues to be a hurdle for many buyers. Policies aimed at supporting first-home buyers may help bring new participants into the market, but also risk increasing competition for limited stock.
The bottom line
For homeowners: Expect steady, sustainable value growth rather than sharp increases.
For buyers: Opportunities remain, but affordability and competition will stay front of mind.
For renters and investors: Tight rental conditions will persist, supporting yields but maintaining pressure on tenants.
Overall, 2026 is shaping up as a year of steady growth and resilience for Banyule and Nillumbik - underpinned by strong fundamentals despite a more complex global backdrop.
Beginners Programs
Our Eltham Wildcats beginner programs continue to go from strength to strength, with clear and engaging pathways for young players starting their basketball journey.
A refreshed Mini Cubs program, stronger development through Ford Aussie Hoops Cub Squad, creating more opportunities for beginners to get involved and progress seamlessly into our Junior Domestic Competition.
For those who may not be familiar with our beginner programs, here is a quick overview of the programs available at Eltham Wildcats:
Mini Cubs (Formerly Kinder Club): An introduction to basketball for our youngest players (3-4 Ages), focusing on fun, movement, and basic skills.
Ford Aussie Hoops Cub Squad: A nationally recognised beginner program that teaches fundamental basketball skills in a fun and engaging environment.
Game Ready: A program focused on preparing players for real game situations, with an emphasis on teamwork and understanding gameplay.
We recently reviewed our beginner programs with a clear focus on strengthening the pathway into Junior Domestic competition and ensuring participants are better supported as they progress. As part of this, we’ve
revamped Mini Cubs, Ford Aussie Hoops Cub Squad, while also introducing a new program Game Ready Scrimmage.
Game Ready Scrimmage is designed for players beginning to explore Junior Domestic Basketball, offering a welcoming and supportive introduction to gameplay. Participants learn the rules of basketball while taking part in coached 5-on-5 matches, helping bridge the gap between training and competition.
Another way we support participants is by guiding them into Junior Domestic Competition when they are ready. We select teams that are made up of players from our beginners programs and are coached by our experienced Cub Squad coaches, ensuring consistency in both development and support throughout their transition.
In the Winter 2026 season, Ben Maywald and Taya Lupton were leading Ford Aussie Hoops Cub Squad teams into the Junior Domestic competition.
We remain committed to expanding these opportunities and look forward to continuing to grow both our girls’ and boys’ teams with the support of our dedicated coaching staff.
A FEEL GOOD STORY OF PERSISTENCE
ADRIAN FAMILI
David Hickman
In October 2024, Adrian took part in Eltham’s VJBL trials. Despite his strength and height for his age, he was unfortunately lacking the foot speed and skill base to be chosen that year.
He did not give up. He attended Eltham’s holiday clinics, junior skills academy sessions and worked on his fitness, court speed and skills in his own time.
He trialled again in October 2025 and was successful, making the under 14-8 team. In his first game of the Whittlesea Tournament he would have had about 20 rebounds, making great position in defence and offence, and
his court speed was as good as the wings. He topscored for the team in that game and 4/5 games and the finals in our Tournament.
Three messages for all keen players:
• Not everyone who attends clinics and camps makes a VJBL team, but it sure helps.
• Do not give up. Try again. We could name numerous players in Under 16 who missed out 2024/2025 but who were selected this time
• Scoring isnt always the most important aspect of basketball, nor is it always what attracts coaches attention. Reward and cheer on players for unrecognised effort that helps win games, including rebounding, passing and defensive pressure
If you have any feel good stories about our community please send them to info@elthamwildcats.net.au
13th September - Junior Representative Competition 2025/26 Awards
Panel Referees: Then & Now
Pat Zerna Director of Officiating
Eltham’s presence on the panel has long been a point of pride, building a strong lineage of representation. Today, the tradition remains in strong hands.
James enters his third year officiating in the NBL-1 South, with Ethan closely tracking on similar trajectory, even featuring together at the Home match against Frankston. Having watched the game from a cafe in Amsterdam, I was delighted at what capable referees they continue to be. Both men followed the footsteps of their immediate predecessor Elliot G who remains highly active in the national league. Alongside him, Mitch now retired leaves behind a strong legacy of contribution on the panel.
The next wave is already emerging. We welcome Bailey and Jesse, our newest junior panel officials both stepping into their debut season. Jaxon, now in his second year, continues to build his profile after attaining his unconditional level 1. I hope he continues to learn from his mentors, partners and ref coaches,
and remains humble as he establishes his footing at the bottom of a steep hill. Alana, our longest serving junior panel referee remains a constant andbacks it up each week with an 0830 ref coaching shift at Eltham High. Be sure to say hello and perhaps offer her a coffee.
Peter & myself continue our roles as league referee coaches, hanging up the boots for pen & paper, and a cushioned seat, attempting to guide the future officials upwards.
We also acknowledge those who have transitioned onwards with their careers and studies outside officiating.
Delightfully, and perhaps shaped by their advisor, both Tamara & Aiden have both pursued careers in paramedicine, whilst Maxine continues her studies in QLD. Amy too, has taken her career north. Both the Perillo boys taking a break from reffing, but will hopefully see them back contributing to our domestic pathways soon.
Eastern Development League Spotlight
Mitch McCarron Head of Junior Pathways
The Eastern Development League has seen significant growth this season not only as a competition, but also internally as a program with the Wildcats. On the back of its inaugural season in 2025, there are now six associations within the North-East region competing across the U12-U16 age groups, sometimes featuring 2 divisions (EDL1 & EDL2). We’d like to share a small update on how our teams are going in their respective seasons so far.
After completing a successful grading phase, our U12 Girls team finds themselves sitting 4th on the ladder after 4 games in the EDL1. From all reports, the team has seen some great signs of improvement since the beginning of the season. This was demonstrated in their recent performances at the Whittlesea Autumn Showdown, the team finished 2nd in their pool and earned a spot in the semi-finals. Best of luck girls!
Our U12 Boys team has built some strong momentum in their pursuit of an EDL2 title, currently sitting 2nd on the ladder after 5 games. The team is working hard on their individual skills as well as game understanding, and it’s reflected in their recent win streak full of strong play and a wide spread of scoring across the group. It’s been great to see how quickly the team is gelling together, certainly one to watch this season!
The U14 Girls EDL1 competition consists of two Eltham Wildcats teams, Team Black & Team Red. Team Black are currently sitting 1st after 5 games with a record of 5-0, what a great start! The team also saw great success in recent tournament play, beating numerous VJBL teams to make the grand-final of the EDJBT and semi-finals at the Whittlesea Autumn Showdown. Team Red also grabbed some great wins in their division at the EDJBT, earning a spot in the semi finals. They currently sit 9th in the EDL1, unfortunately missing out on a few wins by a couple baskets. I want to make special mention of Team Red after seeing them drop a tough game against Hawthorn. While we all love to win, it was so great to see this team still remain positive and connected as a group after a loss. Keep up the hard work girls!
We have two teams who qualified for the U14 Boys EDL1 grade, currently battling week to week in a very compet-
itive ten-team league. Team Red are currently sitting 5th, and Team Black are sitting 6th after 5 games played. With some strong competition at the top of the ladder, our teams have a great opportunity to continue pushing themselves all season. Both teams made it into separate semi-finals at the recent EDJBT, with Team Black grabbing a win before eventually going down in the Grand Final. Great effort boys!
Our three U16 Boys teams are all competing well in the EDL1 competition, which is made up of 12 total teams. After a strong Grading Phase, Team White currently sits in 7th place on the ladder and have put together some great wins as a team. Having coached this term personally in the recent EDJBT, I loved seeing the boys move the ball and support each other in some really close games. After some massive wins during Grading, Team Red are currently sitting 2nd in the league, with a 5-0 record. The team hit the ground running from the beginning of the season, taking out the title of their division in the recent EDJBT! Team Black currently sits 1st in the league with a 5-0 record, with a slight percentage advantage over Team Red. The team has found some great chemistry on-court recently, evident from their current win streak. While missing a few players from the group, Team Black managed to make the semi-finals of the recent EDJBT in
their division as well. Well done to our U16 EDL players and coaches!
Unfortunately, the U16 Girls EDL Competition wasn’t able to get off the ground this season. As Eltham was intending on entering a team, we encouraged the interested players to form a tournament-focused team so that they can continue playing together. After earning a couple wins at the recent EDJBT, the team managed to qualify for the semi finals in their division at the SEJBT. Many of the team have now joined to play in the EDJBA together, and it’s great to see this group of girls enjoying their basketball. Best of luck in your upcoming tournaments!
Wishing all of our teams the best of luck for the remainder of the season.
Big V Season Update
We’re
proud to welcome Coffee Mio as our new naming rights sponsor for both Big V Youth Teams and thank them for their support of the club.
Youth Women:
Following a championship-winning 2025 season, a strong core of our Youth League Women have returned in 2026 with their sights set on building even further success. Their campaign began early in February with the Youth Qualification Series (YQS), which determines promotion and relegation across divisions.
After claiming the Youth League 1 title last year, the Wildcats entered the YQS determined to earn promotion to the Youth League Championship division. They delivered in dominant fashion, defeating Frankston by 41 points in a commanding performance to secure their place at the top level for 2026.
Opening night also provided a special moment for the group, as their 2025 championship banner was unveiled at Eltham High School, cementing their achievement in club history.
After 9 games our Youth League Women sit at a solid 4-5 record. The team has been having great contributions from players up and down their roster which is a great sign for the remainder of the season and for years to come, lead by head coach Kelly Walker. They play home games at Eltham High School and you can head to our socials or the Big V website for their fixture, we’d love you to come out and support them.
The next time you can catch your Youth League teams is Sunday 10th May at 12:30pm (Women) & 2:30pm (Men) @ Eltham High School.
Big V Season Update
Youth Men:
The Youth League Men have taken on a new look in 2026, highlighted by a coaching change with Dave Quinn stepping in as Head Coach following Josh Cheney’s move to an NBL1 role in Bendigo.
The squad features an exciting group of emerging Wildcat juniors, including Liam Burns, Bodhi Stratford, Noah Singh, Eros Addamo, Charles Ndongo, Will Hensel, Josh McCann, Mitchell McIntosh, and Archie Coady.
The season began with some adversity, as Riley Castles and Cooper Hailes both suffered season-ending injuries. We wish them a smooth recovery and look forward to seeing them back on court in 2027.
After 9 games our Youth League Men hold a 2-7 record. Despite this, several close losses highlight how competitive the group has been, with clear signs that results can quickly turn as the season progresses.
The next time you can catch your Youth League teams is Sunday 10th May at 12:30pm (Women) & 2:30pm (Men) @ Eltham High School.
NBL1 Quest Bundoora Women Update
After a 2025 season heavily impacted by injury, the Wildcats NBL1 Women have come into 2026 with a clear point to prove.
The group has been strengthened by the addition of import Mackenzie Smith, WNBL veteran Sarah Elsworthy, and Sara-Rose Smith returning to Melbourne from her college career. Combined with a strong returning core including Rebecca Pizzey, Lil Dart, Kennedy Dickie, Jayde Cadee, and Emily Maltezos, this is one of the deepest squads the program has assembled.
We’re also thrilled to welcome back Wildcat junior Georgia Dale. Georgia progressed through the Eltham pathway before spending six years in the US college system, followed by time in NBL1 North (Queensland). Now back in Wildcats colours, it’s fantastic to have her
home and contributing to the program once again.
Our NBL1 Women have had an impressive start to the 2026 season, sitting third on the ladder with a 6-2 record after 8 games.
The group has been playing an exciting brand of basketball, fast, unselfish, and built on a strong defensive foundation. Their defensive intensity has been the core of their success, currently ranking number one in the league in defensive rating.
Your Wildcat Women are undefeated at home and we need your help to keep it that way, come down and make some noise supporting your Wildcats at our next home game is on Saturday May 9th vs Waverley @ 6pm Montmorency Secondary.
NBL1 Airfusion Men Update
Your NBL1 men have come into the season looking to continue their run of successful seasons.
One of the standout stories to start the 2026 season has been the emergence of Wildcat junior Zak Cunningham. After spending several seasons developing off the bench at NBL1 level, Zak has stepped into the starting lineup and seized his opportunity with both hands. He currently leads the team with averages of 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. It’s been a fantastic start to the season for Zak, and we’re excited to see his continued growth in this expanded role.
New additions Harrison Hornery, TJ Weeks Jr, and Leonardo Colimèrio have integrated seamlessly into the group, making strong contributions to the team’s early-season success.
Just as importantly, they have embraced the Wildcats culture off the court, getting involved in club programs and academies and quickly becoming valued members of the wider Wildcats community.
On the court, the group has made an impressive start to the 2026 campaign, currently also sitting third on the ladder with a 6-2 record. It marks one of the strongest openings for the Men’s program since the inception of NBL1.
Make sure to get down to our next home game, May 9th vs Waverley! Tickets available now on Intix!
