FAQs
FAQ Topics
Keep scrolling to view our frequently asked questions –or– explore and navigate to a specific section using the links below.
-
What is Girls’ and Women’s Pathways (GWP)?
What is the goal of the GWP program?
Is the program only for girls and women?
Who hosts GWP?
How is GWP funded?
-
What age groups does the program cater to?
How often are the training sessions held?
Where are the training sessions held?
Do I need to attend every week?
What are the seminar/webinar topics?
-
What benefits are provided to participants?
What merchandise is included in the program?
-
How long does the program last?
Can I attend seminars online?
Is prior basketball experience required?
Can I join if I’m currently a player, coach or referee, or involved in basketball in some other role/position?
Who can participate in GWP?
What is the cost to join GWP?
What should I bring?
-
How can I sign up for the program?
Can I cancel my registration for free?
Do I have to register every week?
Does each participant have to register separately?
Can I bring a friend along?
Who do I contact for more information?
Can I attend more than one term?
Are sessions indoor or outdoor?
Program Overview
What is Girls’ and Women’s Pathways (GWP)?
GWP is an initiative aimed at introducing girls and women to basketball. It combines weekly training and game sessions with seminars/webinars to educate participants about the game, its technical aspects and the benefits of regular participation in team sports. The program supports participants in transitioning to permanent roles as players, coaches, referees or basketball administrators.
What is the goal of the GWP program?
The program’s primary goal is to empower participants with the confidence and skills to engage in basketball in a variety of roles. Beyond teaching the game, it aims to promote physical activity, mental health and community engagement through sport.
Is the program only for girls and women?
The program is for women and girls, non-binary, transgender and gender-fluid individuals. It is designed to include participants from diverse backgrounds, such as:
First Nations communities
First-generation immigrants
People from low and high socio-economic groups
The program emphasises inclusivity and aims to create a welcoming environment for all.
Who hosts GWP?
GWP is hosted by a number of stakeholders, including Collingwood Basketball Association as the primary partner and Banyule Basketball Club and Ivanhoe Basketball Club as secondary partners. The training program and seminar content is developed and managed by the Head Basketball Program Consultant, Zoe Zwerling of More Than Basketball.
How is GWP funded?
On 19 August 2023, following the success of the Matildas at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Australian Government announced one of Australia’s biggest and most comprehensive investments in women’s sports, the $200 million Play Our Way grant program. The program aims to promote equitable opportunities for women and girls to benefit from sport at all levels and locations by addressing the barriers they experience when participating in sport and physical activity. Play Our Way was designed with assistance from experts across sport and government, including an expert advisory panel who have direct experience navigating community and professional sport. The program is being administered by the Office for Sport in the Department of Health and Aged Care. Further information about the program is available at: Play Our Way program | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
Program Structure
What age groups does the program cater to?
The program is divided into four categories based on age:
13–14: Designed for beginners or those new to basketball, with a focus on fun, skills and game play.
15–16: Designed for beginners or those new to basketball, with a focus on fun, skills and game play.
17-23: Tailored for teenagers and young adults who are either new to basketball or returning after a break, with sessions focusing on fun, fitness and competitive game play.
24+: For adults new to or reintroducing themselves to basketball, sessions include fitness and competitive gameplay.
How often are the training sessions held?
Each age group participates in eight one-hour weekly session during the school term. The sessions are organised to accommodate the developmental and fitness needs of each group.
Where are the training sessions held?
Bundha Sports Centre
111 Queens Parade
Fitzroy North VIC 3068
Do I need to attend every week?
While you are highly encouraged to attend each week, it’s not a requirement.
What are the seminar/webinar topics?
Seminars/webinars provide a comprehensive introduction to basketball and its associated benefits, covering:
Basketball terminology, scoring, rules, timing, and drills
Coaching techniques and pathways to becoming a coach
Officiating basics, including rules and game management
Mental health and the psychological benefits of physical activity
Team dynamics and the value of collaboration in sports
Benefits & Incentives
What benefits are provided to participants?
To encourage ongoing involvement in basketball, participants receive:
Players: Free registration for their first season, a basketball, and a uniform to help them transition to team play.
Coaches: A coaching pack that includes a t-shirt, hoodie, bag, and ball to support their journey into coaching.
Referees: Free registration and a referee kit to ensure they are equipped for officiating games.
What merchandise is included in the program?
All participants are provided with program-branded shorts or pants and a t-shirt as part of their registration.
Participation Details
How long does the program last?
The program runs during school terms, and participants are expected to attend for at least one term, which includes 8 training sessions and 2–3 educational seminars/webinars.
Can I attend seminars online?
Yes, the program offers flexibility by hosting seminars both in-person and online. This ensures participants can engage with the educational content regardless of their location or schedule.
Is prior basketball experience required?
No prior experience is necessary. The program is designed for beginners and those returning to basketball.
Can I join if I’m currently a player, coach or referee, or involved in basketball in some other role/position?
Yes. All female-identifying people are welcome to participate in the program, although it is designed for those who are new to basketball or are returning to basketball.
Who can participate in GWP?
Female-identifying, gender-fluid and non-binary people who are 13 years of age or above.
What is the cost to join GWP?
The program is completely free to join. You’ll receive access to eight weeks of training, games, and information sessions, along with complimentary merchandise like leggings and a t-shirt.
What should I bring?
All you need to bring is a water bottle, comfortable clothing and appropriate foot wear. Basketballs will be provided at all sessions.
Registration
How can I sign up for the program?
You can register for the program at gwpbasketball.com/programs . Early registration is encouraged, as spaces may be limited.
Can I cancel my registration for free?
Yes, cancellation is free. Please ensure you cancel your booking if you do not plan to attend.
Do I have to register every week?
No. Registration in the program once will allow you full access to the eight weeks of trainings, games and information sessions.
Does each participant have to register separately?
Yes. Each participant must register separately.
Can I bring a friend along?
Absolutely! We encourage you to invite friends and family to join the program and be part of our GWP community. Please have them register via the links here gwpbasketball.com/programs.
Who do I contact for more information?
You can get in touch via our contact page.
Can I attend more than one term?
The program runs for eight weeks in which participants are encouraged to attend every session. At the conclusion of the eight weeks, you will have fully completed the program. Although you are welcome to register again and repeat the program, priority will be given to first-time participants.
Are sessions indoor or outdoor?
All sessions are held indoor.