Flames stand with WNBL in fight to end violence against women
The WNBL, clubs (including the Sydney Flames), Australian Basketball Players Association (ABPA) and players have joined forces to deliver a season-long initiative aimed at taking a stand against violence toward women.
Following the outstanding work delivered by the UC Capitals over the past two seasons, led by domestic violence survivor, Alex Bunton, the initiative aims to use their respective platforms to continue to focus on the national crisis, and lead efforts to encourage the WNBL community to take action.
Starting this week and continuing throughout the 2024/25 Cygnett WNBL season, all players will don a purple band on their singlet on gameday, showing their support for survivors of domestic violence.
SECURE YOUR WNBL25 MEMBERSHIPS NOW
There will be information and callouts provided in broadcast in every WNBL game, as well as a special piece of content released on 25 November, in line with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Multiple education sessions will be delivered to all athletes and Clubs, and players will have the opportunity to get involved with partner, FullStop Australia.
ABPA general manager of player relations and engagement and Flame #221, Tess Madgen, highlighted the commitment of WNBL players to promoting awareness and taking a stand against violence.
“One in four women in Australia have experienced intimate partner violence, and one woman is killed every nine days by a former or current partner – enough is enough,” Madgen said.
“I’m incredibly proud of the players in the WNBL who are stepping up as role models, using their platforms to raise awareness, foster support, and encourage open dialogue around this critical issue.’
‘Their commitment embodies our dedication to protecting and uplifting our community, reminding us that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued—not only on the court but in every part of their lives. Together, we stand for change.”
Watch Cayla George’s interview on the Wide World of Sports via Sydney Flames’ YouTube channel above. While you’re there, be sure to hit subscribe, to ensure you never miss out on any of our great videos.
Head of WNBL, Christy Collier-Hill, praised the basketball community for coming together to address this critical issue.
“As a women’s league we feel very strongly about supporting causes that affect women and girls,” Collier-Hill said.
“This issue, in particular, is unfortunately now a national crisis, and we need to do our part to have an impact on that.
“I want to thank the players, clubs, ABPA, referees, administrators and everyone involved in the league for uniting to raise awareness about violence against women.”
PURCHASE YOUR FLAMES QUAYCENTRE TICKETS HERE
Full Stop Australia CEO, Karen Bevan echoed their thoughts.
This initiative by the WNBL puts a spotlight on violence against women and highlights the critical importance of sporting codes taking action,” Bevan said.
“Full Stop Australia welcomes the WNBL’s commitment to being part of the change needed to end violence against women.
“We are encouraged to see the whole code stand in solidarity with victim-survivors of sexual, domestic and family violence. For counselling services, call 1800 Full Stop (1800 385 578). You can support Full Stop Australia by making a donation at donate.fullstop.org.au.”
The Flames tip-off their WNBL25 season with their home opener against Canberra on Sunday, November 3.
This fixture, part of the Hoops Capital club’s first double-header of 2024-25 alongside the Kings’ match with Tasmania, tips off at 1.45pm AEDT at Qudos Bank Arena – with tickets still available here.