Perth Wildcats Launch Believe & Belong Strategy

The Perth Wildcats have announced their “Believe & Belong Social Impact Strategy.” This initiative is designed to deepen connections with their fanbase while fostering initiatives that aim to unify the diverse Western Australian community.

The strategy reflects a growing understanding within professional sports that fan experience extends beyond on-court performance, encompassing a sense of shared passion, connection, and community unity.

The “Believe & Belong” framework is structured around four principal focus areas: Belonging Beyond the Court, Inspiring the Next Generation, Championing Community, and Growing the Game.

Fostering Inclusivity and Belonging Beyond the Court of Perth Wildcats

“Belonging Beyond the Court” underscores the Wildcats’ commitment to inclusivity. The club aims to cultivate a family-friendly and open environment by hosting events such as Indigenous and Heritage Rounds, Pride Round, the All Abilities Carnival, and various community days.

Emphasising the significance of the All Abilities Carnival, Newton Moore Education Support Centre personnel, Jodi Collins, said: “The Perth Wildcats All Abilities Carnival was a true celebration of everything young people with disability can achieve when given a chance.” 

For the Wildcats, actively promoting inclusivity broadens their potential fanbase, enhances their brand reputation as a progressive organisation, and aligns with corporate social responsibility objectives increasingly valued by sponsors and the wider public.

Cultivating Future Talent and Expanding the Game’s Reach

The “Inspiring the Next Generation” and “Growing the Game” focus areas are intrinsically linked to the long-term sustainability and commercial viability of the club and the sport.

The Wildcats continue their efforts with holiday clinics, school visits, youth outreach, and the Inspire Program, which equips students with experiences fostering confidence and life skills.

Sharing his personal experience, SEDA student Declan Justice, added: “I have developed many valuable work skills such as time management and organisation, and I feel that my confidence has grown.”

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, High Point University recruit and Wildcats Academy graduate, Josh Ibukunoluwa, said: “You’re in a pro-environment every day. You get taught how to be a pro.”

“It’s helped me with nutrition, strength and conditioning, and you get to play with the best young players in WA and get coached by the best coaches in WA too, so you get the best of both worlds,” Ibukunoluwa said. 

Furthermore, the “Growing the Game” pillar aims to make basketball accessible to everyone, regardless of background.

Through coach development clinics, partnerships with Basketball WA and NBL1 West, and the Rio Tinto Wildcats Academy, the club is actively creating pathways for young talent.

Leveraging Platform for Social Responsibility and Community Impact

The “Championing Community” focus area highlights the Wildcats’ dedication to supporting causes that resonate with both fans and the broader community.

Initiatives like Pink Round, which raises funds for Breast Cancer Care WA, as well as RUOK Day, anti-racism campaigns, and numerous charity partnerships, demonstrate the club’s commitment to leveraging its platform to unite people and raise awareness on significant social issues.

Commenting on the impact, CEO of Breast Cancer Care WA, Max Clarke, said: “The support and generosity from the Wildcats and their Red Army has meant thousands of people affected by breast cancer have benefited from the services we provide.”

For the Wildcats, these partnerships enhance their corporate social responsibility (CSR) profile, attracting values-aligned sponsors and strengthening community goodwill.

A strong CSR program can differentiate a club in a competitive market, fostering deeper relationships with local businesses and government bodies.

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