How Community Sport is Championing Inclusion

Sport isn’t just about competition, it’s about belonging.

At Eastland, we believe everyone should have the opportunity to get involved, no matter their age, background or ability.
That’s why we’re proud to support inclusive community sports programs and our retailers who are making sport more accessible for everyone.

Let’s look at how community sport is opening doors, building confidence and helping everyone feel part of the team!

Why inclusive sport matters

Inclusive sports programs are designed to break down barriers and help all people thrive, by:

• boosting mental and physical wellbeing

• encouraging connection and reducing isolation

• supporting confidence and life skills

• celebrating diversity across all communities.

Whether it’s through adaptive gear, diverse teams, or welcoming environments, inclusive sport is about creating spaces where everyone belongs.

Local clubs leading the way

Across the country, community clubs are doing incredible work to ensure sport really is for everyone. Here at Eastlands, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on local sporting clubs which are creating inclusive environments for their communities.

• Ringwood Hawks- Schools and Community Program
  

  The Ringwood Hawks are committed not only to being one of the strongest clubs in the NBL1 but also to playing an active and positive role within the local community.

  Together with Eastland, the Ringwood Hawks take great pride in their contribution through the Eastland Ringwood Hawks Schools and Community Program.
  This initiative is open to all primary and secondary schools within the Maroondah area, offering visits from Hawks NBL1 players who run basketball clinics and donate equipment.

  Through these sessions, students not only develop their basketball skills but also learn valuable lessons about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. As part of the program, the Hawks donate 40 basketballs to each participating school’s sports department and gift every student a Hawks poster!

  Find out more

   

• MENA - Eastern All Abilities Netball

  Fun for Everyone!
  The Eastern All-Abilities Netball Program welcomes girls and boys with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities to experience the joy of netball in a supportive and inclusive environment.

  Designed to build confidence and connection, the program focuses on developing skills, teamwork, and friendship - all while having plenty of fun on the court!
  It’s a fantastic way to stay active, learn new skills, and make lasting friendships.

  Sign up now

These local heroes are proving that inclusive sport isn’t just possible…it’s powerful.

Retailers supporting inclusive sport

1. Gear up with accessible activewear

The right sportswear can make all the difference. At Eastland, retailers like rebel and Nike are leading the way in playing sports more inclusive by offering activewear ranges that cater to a diverse range of needs and bodies.

Many collections include adaptive clothing for people with limited mobility, sensory-friendly fabrics designed for those with sensitivities, and wide-fit or orthotic-friendly footwear that provides better support - all available from trusted brands like Footlocker. From seamless leggings to easy-on zip designs and breathable materials, these thoughtful innovations help break down barriers and ensure everyone can participate in sport.

2. Back brands that build belonging

Many retailers today are doing more than just selling products, they’re actively creating spaces where everyone feels seen, supported and empowered.
At Eastland, brands are stepping up to champion inclusion and connection through a wide range of community-focused initiatives.

• Johnny Big offers purchase for purpose across their sock range with profits going directly to mental wellbeing support with Beyond Blue

• Rebel partners with initiatives that promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in youth sport

• Bupa supports programs encouraging participation among people with disability

By choosing to shop with brands that invest in these kinds of programs, you're not just buying activewear, you're helping to build a stronger, more inclusive sporting culture. Speak to staff in-store at Eastland to learn more about the initiatives these retailers support and how you can get involved. Your next purchase could help change someone's life through sport.

3. Celebrate culture through sport

At Eastland, we believe that sport is a powerful way to bring people together and celebrate the rich diversity of our communities. That’s why we’re proud to support retailers like JD Sports who regularly collaborate on cultural events (from pop-up games to heritage round celebrations that embrace inclusion through sport!)

Across the country, community sports initiatives are leading the way in celebrating cultural heritage through themed game days and multicultural events.
For example, Melbourne’s Multicultural Youth Sports Partnership hosts the annual World Games, where teams represent different nations and traditional sports from around the globe, promoting cross-cultural understanding and unity.

By spotlighting these moments (whether it’s a retailer-led event or a grassroots celebration) we’re helping foster a more welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone can feel seen, respected, and connected through the universal language of sport.

How to join the movement

Want to be part of the change? Here’s how you can get involved:

• Join or support a local inclusive sports club.

• Volunteer as a coach or event helper for adaptive or inclusive programs.

• Attend cultural sporting events in your community.

• Shop with and support retailers that are championing inclusive sport.
  
  

Looking for more ideas?
Learn about how to make sport inclusion on the Australian Sports Commission website. 
Our Play Well partnership with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) is all about making sport fun, safe, welcoming and inclusive for everyone.