Maccabi Basketball Wraps Up a Strong Summer Season

With over 60 domestic teams competing across U8 to U20 age groups, the Summer 24/25 season was another standout for Maccabi Victoria Basketball. More than 600 Jewish students had the chance to connect, grow, and sharpen their basketball skills, backed by a committed network of coaches, parents, team managers, sponsors, and volunteers.

Competing across two leagues – the McKinnon and Waverley Basketball Associations – Maccabi teams had a standout run. In McKinnon, six teams made it to the Grand Finals, with three winning their matches. At Waverley, eight out of nine Maccabi teams claimed victory – one of those matches being a Maccabi derby.

The club also introduced the next generation to the game through its popular Mini Skills program, introducing kids aged 4–7 to the basics of basketball in a playful, supportive environment. It’s been a joy watching them fall in love with the game from such an early age.

During the summer break, a high-energy Holiday Program helped players focus on key skills like shooting, defence and ball-handling. The activities were high energy and the prizes were highly sought after.

Maccabi Basketball’s culture of community and leadership continues to shine. In November, Vice President Leonard Samuel and parent-coach Daniel Sherr were recognised as ‘Local Heroes’ by David Southwick MP and Community Bank Caulfield Park – a well-deserved acknowledgement of their contribution to the club.

Szwider Sisters Success

A big Mazeltov to Emily and Ashley Szwider – two long-time Maccabi coaches who both led their U16 Girls teams to Grand Final wins at McKinnon. Emily’s U16 Maccabi Fever sealed a 19–6 win over The Squids, while Ashley’s U16 Maccabi Liberty edged out the Jets Zack (Mint) 14–13 in a tight finish. With only a 15-minute gap between the two matches, the Szwider fan crew were dashing between courts. Huge thanks to Emily and Ashley for their ongoing leadership and dedication.

Sportsmanship Spotlight: Willow Solewicz

One of the standout moments of the finals was seeing U16 Maccabi Liberty player Willow Solewicz recognised not just for her gameplay, but for the way she carried herself on court. After helping her team secure a one-point Grand Final win, Willow was awarded the $100 Grand Final Sportsmanship Award by the McKinnon referees. She was also named MVP by her coach, Ashley. Pictured post-match with her grandparents Peter and Denise Kagan, Willow’s double recognition capped off a special day for her and her family.

With Winter Season 2025 fast approaching, we’re ready to build on the momentum. Thank you to everyone who plays a role in making Maccabi Basketball what it is – we’ll see you on court soon.

U10 Maccabi Boys Kings                                                           U12 Maccabi Boys Warriors                                   U14 Maccabi Boys Falcons

Huge thanks to Peter Haskin for capturing some of the bronze games below.