Ingles, NBL Create Welcome Spaces

It’s loud, exciting and there’s always something happening at Hungry Jack’s NBL games right across the country but for some people it can be somewhat overwhelming.

That’s why the League has welcomed a new permanent sensory room at John Cain Arena, as it continues to create events everyone can enjoy.

“The NBL strongly promotes and encourages inclusion in all aspects of our game, as we look to make our League even more welcoming and accessible,” Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said.

In a joint collaboration, the NBL has partnered with KultureCity, John Cain Arena, Melbourne United and South East Melbourne Phoenix.

Several NBL clubs already have sensory rooms or spaces at their stadiums with the permanent sensory room at John Cain funded and maintained by Australian basketball great, Joe Ingles and his wife Renae Ingles, the Executive Director for KultureCity Australia.

“It is great to see sensory rooms and facilities already in operation at several of our arenas and with Kulture City now launching in Australia, I’m very hopeful that more education and training about sensory rooms and individuals with sensory needs will take place across the NBL community,” Loeliger added.

KultureCity is a global organisation helping spread awareness on inclusion of all individuals by assisting businesses to become sensory certified.

“One in six of us have a sensory need or an invisible disability,” Renae Ingles said.

“This room gives the opportunity for individuals and families who previously had missed out on experiences held at John Cain Arena now have the confidence and safety to come and enjoy the event.

“What this means is every guest at every event at John Cain Arena, everyone is included. Everyone is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve, no matter what their ability.”