sport

Bendigo Clubs Launch Youth Sports Programs, Connect Hundreds of Families

Organisations including the Bendigo Strathdale Netball Association and Bendigo Little Athletics run regular competitions that connect families and develop young athletes.

By Bendigo Sport Desk · Published 25 July 2026

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The Daily Bendigo

Bendigo has secured the Foot Locker Under-16 National Championships through 2027, giving the city a continuing role in hosting a key high-performance pathway for Australia's best under-16 boys' and girls' basketball teams. The 2026 Code Sports NBL Blitz will also take place at Red Energy Arena from September 2-6, with the Premier of Victoria and NBL CEO announcing the event.

Netball Association Operations

The Bendigo Strathdale Netball Association Inc. runs one of the largest junior netball competitions in Victoria. Its weekly matches and training sessions bring together families from across the region, creating regular opportunities for parents, volunteers and players to interact at local courts.

Little Athletics Structure

Bendigo Little Athletics offers a structured program for children aged 5-15 that covers running, jumping and throwing disciplines. Saturday morning competitions begin in October each year, providing a consistent schedule that helps families plan around school and other commitments while building skills through repeated participation.

Grant Support for Athletes

Local young athletes received 'Local Sporting Champions' grants from the Australian Government in October 2025. The funding assisted travel, equipment and uniforms for sports including swimming, canoeing, soccer and wheelchair sports, allowing participants to maintain involvement without additional family costs.

Upcoming Basketball Events

The Foot Locker Under-16 National Championships and the NBL Blitz at Red Energy Arena will draw teams and supporters to Bendigo. These events rely on the same local clubs that run year-round programs, extending community networks when visiting athletes and families arrive.

Residents can find details on junior netball through the Bendigo Strathdale Netball Association and on Little Athletics sessions via the organisation's regular Saturday morning schedule. Information on the 2026 basketball events is available through the Bendigo Academy of Sport channels.

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