Maccabi Basketball – 2025 Winter Season Wrap

It’s been another standout year for Maccabi Basketball, with 77 teams taking the court across the McKinnon and Waverley leagues. Teams were formed through detailed individual evaluations and extended try-outs, helping set the foundation for one of the club’s most competitive and successful seasons yet.

Across the year, 592 players proudly wore Maccabi colours, and an impressive 40 teams reached finals. 9 sides went all the way, securing premiership flags – the U10 Hawks, U12 Eagles, U14 Eagles, U14 Warriors, U14 Celtics, U16 Warriors, U16 Storm, U16 Dream and the U21 Men.

The U21 Men’s Grand Final was one for the history books. In a hard-fought battle against Solway Cobras, the match went point-for-point until the final seconds. With everything on the line, Maccabi sealed the win on the buzzer – the perfect ending to a season defined by composure and belief.

There were touching moments too. The U16 Fever girls took the court united with orange ribbons in memory of the Bibas Brothers, showing what sport can mean when it carries a deeper purpose. Maccabi Basketball also participated in the Melbourne Holocaust Museum and Maccabi Victoria’s #justlikeyou Yom HaShoah commemorations, a poignant reminder that many of our members are descendants of Holocaust survivors – and that those who perished were just like you.

Individual MVP honours were awarded across all age groups, celebrating players who embodied teamwork, spirit, and consistency. Among them were Jake and Elliot of the Celtics (pictured below), who stood out for their effort and attitude throughout the season. Coach Aryk was also recognised for his leadership and commitment to his players.

Skill development remained at the heart of the program, guided by Head Coaches Mick Wheeler and Drew Solewicz, whose influence continues to shape the next generation of players. The Mini Basketball Skills Program, designed for children aged 5–8, proved a hit once again – so popular it ran at full capacity. Older players benefited from the Thursday night shooting and skills sessions for U12–U16s, which were also oversubscribed and will expand next season.

Off the court, creativity took centre stage as the club celebrated its 75th anniversary with a design competition for a brand-new uniform. Congratulations to Spencer Appel, whose design number 6 captured the imagination of members and secured the top vote. While Spencer’s entry stood out, the final uniform incorporates ideas from across all submissions, creating a collective design that reflects the creativity and pride of Maccabi’s juniors.

Looking ahead to next season, the club will introduce a new system where every player receives a unique singlet number – one child, one number, one identity on court. This change will reduce clash tops, build consistency, and strengthen the sense of belonging across all teams.

As always, Maccabi’s strength lies in its people. 27 parent coaches gave their time and energy week after week, supported by an incredible group of parent volunteers who scored, managed, and cheered from the sidelines. Their dedication made the season possible and continues to be the backbone of the club.

With momentum building, new programs expanding, and a refreshed look on the way, Maccabi Basketball enters its next chapter with confidence and pride.

Go Maccabi!

Event Announcement

Barak – From the Court to the Community

Barak is a former elite US college basketball player and rising voice in Israel advocacy. With experience training NBA, WNBA, and top European athletes, including the only Israeli player in the NBA, Barak brings a unique blend of sporting excellence and community leadership.

Through the universal language of basketball, Barak connects communities, counters antisemitism, and humanises the story of Israel. He is the founder of GRIT (Gain Resilience In Time) and speaks globally on Jewish identity, resilience, and bridging divides.

Jewish Care Victoria, Maccabi Australia, and Maccabi Victoria Basketball Club are proud to host two special sessions with Barak, designed to inspire and upskill participants both on and off the court.

📅Session Details

·Sunday 12 October, 11:00 – 12:00 pm  10-14yrs (U12 & U14) Boys and Girls

·Sunday 12 October, 12:00 – 1:00 pm  15-18 yrs (U16 & U18) Boys and Girls

·💲Cost: $10 per participant

⚡Places are limited – book early to secure your spot!

REGISTER

Please contact Susannah with any queries you may have E: headofsupportservices@maccabi.com.au