The Tasmania JackJumpers have launched a new charity branch aimed at expanding community engagement and supporting up-and-coming young players.
The ‘Defend the Island Foundation’ was set up following the team’s historic 2023/24 Championship win and will be spearheaded by coach Scott Roth.
Roth said the first initiative of the foundation is the JackJumpers Championship Wall, where fans can have their name proudly displayed at home games for a $10 donation.
“We’re calling on all Tasmanians near and far to be part of this championship with us by having their name on this commemorative wall,” he said.
“Donating to the foundation … will help us continue [to] expand our presence and reach in the community.”
The funds raised will support multiple community initiatives across the state to allow more people to participate in basketball and engage with the team.
JackJumpers CEO Christine Finnegan said the foundation is hoped to allow more people to participate in the game.
“We want to inspire and help more kids to play the game, and to continue to bring the community together,” she said.
“The players are proud to carry the island map on their playing jerseys and this will be a fantastic dedication to our fans and their contribution to our club and to the community.”
“Your name on the Championship Wall is the first initiative of the Defend the Island Foundation, with several other initiatives to follow including an athlete development program and a basketball academy in the future.”
