Bright and early on Thursday morning, 22 May 2025, Diamond Valley Basketball Association hosted the inaugural Diamond Valley Business Network Breakfast – an event that brought together community leaders, sponsors, business partners, junior domestic clubs, and key figures from across the sporting and business sectors. All were united by a shared belief in the power of sport to drive social change, foster community engagement, and support youth development and growth.
In addition to the inspiring presentations, the event offered a valuable opportunity for local businesses to connect, network, and explore future collaborations. Creating a platform for shared goals and new partnerships was central to the morning’s success.
Held at Missing Gorilla in Eltham, the breakfast featured an outstanding line-up of guest speakers, including the Hon. Kate Thwaites MP for Jagajaga, former Boomer and NBL Champion Chris Anstey, and NBL1 star Peter Hooley. The morning was a celebration of shared values, community spirit, and the vital role sport plays in creating opportunities at both grassroots and elite levels.
Speakers shared personal stories from their athletic journeys and reflected on the importance of strong foundations and support from the grassroots level in youth sport. The event also acknowledged the invaluable work of Diamond Valley Basketball Association’s board and the leadership of General Manager Pat Di Lizio, whose commitment to community and grassroots sport was echoed throughout the morning.
A recurring theme was that success in sport—and in life—is built not just on talent, but on values, character, and support networks. As Chris Anstey shared:
“Talent might open the door, but it’s values, resilience, and hard work that keep it open.”
The Hon. Kate Thwaites MP also highlighted the broader impact of local sporting communities:
“The importance of community groups like this, and the impact they have – not only on sport but on the entire community – cannot be overstated.”
The conversation reinforced how junior domestic clubs and their volunteers provide critical pathways and support that shape both athletic and personal growth. As Chris Anstey further reflected:
“It’s important that a coach cares for the person, not just the athlete.”
The event closed with a renewed commitment to building stronger connections and fostering an environment where values, character, and unity come first. These are the cornerstones that sustain both sporting excellence and community strength.
As Diamond Valley Basketball Association looks ahead to another exciting year, the 2025 Business Network Breakfast served as a timely reminder that, in sport as in life – we rise together.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to be part of this inspiring morning of connection. We look forward to building on this momentum and creating an even stronger, more connected community.
