Search Results

NBA Math Hoops, the quality, easy-to-implement, easy-to-access resource for your classroom. < Back Unleashing the Power of Sport to Improve Numeracy Emily O'Halloran 9 May 2024 NBA Math Hoops, the quality, easy-to-implement, easy-to-access resource for your classroom. In the words of Nelson Mandela, " Sport has the power to change the world…to inspire...to unite people... It speaks to youth in a language they understand." This wisdom transcends beyond the playing field and resonates within our classrooms. Research published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health underscores the connection between sports-based learning activities and heightened student motivation, improved attendance, and enhanced academic performance. But what about the specific links between sport and mathematics? The evidence is compelling. In a 2017 study, Sanchal and Sharma found that introducing a sports context in learning improved attitudes towards maths. Furthermore, findings from the American Institutes for Research demonstrated that students engaged in sports-related maths programs showed enhanced problem-solving, critical thinking, and overall maths proficiency. As a former Numeracy Leader, I've seen firsthand the transformative effect of infusing sports into maths lessons. Games like dodgeball for statistics, BinBall for percentages, and table soccer for angles make abstract concepts tangible, fun and playful experiences. Lessons like "Impossible Soccer Angles" and "Kicking Goals," part of the Middle Years Mathematics Challenges series by the Mathematical Association of Victoria, demonstrate how maths and sports can not only break down barriers but also make learning fun and engaging. While integrating sport and play into lessons is undoubtedly beneficial, the reality is that it demands precious energy and time, both of which are scarce commodities for teachers. Fortunately, there are quality, easy-to-implement, easy-to-access resources available. One standout example is NBA Math Hoops, a program designed by Learn Fresh for primary and junior secondary students. In NBA Math Hoops, students simulate basketball games using a board game format that incorporates real-life statistical data from NBA players. Through this engaging approach, students not only reinforce their mathematical skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for the practical applications of numeracy in everyday life. Students draft NBA players for their team, assess player statistics, strategise game moves, and make decisions based on mathematical principles. The success of NBA Math Hoops and similar programs lies in their ability to bridge the gap between abstract mathematical concepts and real-world applications. By incorporating sports into the learning process, students are more likely to stay engaged and enthusiastic about maths. The dynamic nature of sport fosters teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills – all essential components of mathematical proficiency. Harriet Dunn, a primary school teacher from Merri-Bek Primary School, put it very simply after bringing NBA Math Hoops into her classroom: “For once the students looked forward to maths lessons”. The power of sports to engage students in maths is not just theoretical; it's real and transformative. As school leaders, consider championing programs like NBA Math Hoops to create an environment where learning becomes synonymous with excitement. Get free access to NBA Math Hoops in your school and explore how The Huddle is improving education and employment outcomes through the power of sport by following this link: https://www.thehuddle.org.au/nbamathhoops Previous Next

Somali Healthcare Professionals (SHP) is a networking platform founded by three passionate young Somali women < Back Local Legends: Somali Healthcare Professionals Riley Goodwin 15 Dec 2021 Somali Healthcare Professionals (SHP) is a networking platform founded by three passionate young Somali women Somali Healthcare Professionals (SHP) is a networking platform founded by three passionate young Somali women in the Australian healthcare field. With the mission of creating a networking platform that connects current and future Somali healthcare professionals, the platform also raises awareness on public health issues within the Somali community. Lead by Najmo Said, a registered nurse, Fatumo Elmi, a 4th year nursing and midwifery student and Umal Kheyr, a registered midwife; Somali Healthcare Professionals showcases the diverse areas in the healthcare profession by sharing the young women’s journeys in their particular profession. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the young women at SHP worked hard to communicate public health messages to the Somali community. In September, SHP organised and facilitated an in-language COVID-19 Q&A session to provide a culturally safe space to ask questions on COVID-19 and the vaccines available. Alongside this, the team provides regular updates on COVID-19 to their following, as well as promoting COVID vaccines from the frontlines at Western Health vaccination hubs. The network is open to join at any time. Check Somali Healthcare Professionals out on Instagram @SomaliHealthcarePro_ and Facebook. Previous Next

Ayden takes part in the Guard of Honour during AFL Indigenous Round < Back Participant profile: Ayden Bartlett Riley Goodwin 15 June 2022 Ayden takes part in the Guard of Honour during AFL Indigenous Round If you keep in the loop with The Huddle, you may have seen one of our participants take part in the Guard of Honour during AFL Indigenous Round this year. That participant is Ayden Bartlett Keppler, and that is only part of his journey at The Huddle. Ayden, age 13, first became involved with The Huddle in March this year, signing up to our Huddle Up! Seniors sessions at Manor Lakes P-12 College. His older sister had been attending the program, so he wanted to join in and check it out himself. Since then, Ayden has been coming to Huddle Up! consistently each week for the whole year. His favourite sport is AFL, and he also enjoys cooking and all things technology. An enthusiastic participant, Ayden is always creating new activities and games for The Huddle participants and even gets the staff to join in, since taking part in the program he has developed a love for indoor soccer, bocce (similar to lawn bowls) and badminton. "Ayden is constantly teaching me something each week at programs, whether it's how to complete a Rubix cube in 48 seconds, or anything sporty! He is always a joy in our programs delivering the vibes and the DJ tunes each week!" Community Sprot and Recreation Coordinator Candela Ferreyra Bas stated. Due to being a stand-out in the Huddle Up! Seniors cohort and a proud First Nations boy, Ayden was invited to the Guard of Honour for this North Melbourne Kangaroos Indigenous Round. Ayden attended the amazing experience with his younger brother Riley, who from that day, became a member of Roo Squad. Since his awesome experiences with The Huddle and at North Melbourne Kangaroos games, Ayden is a convert to the football club. Recently Ayden, his brother Riley, and his father Scott attended the Round 13 game versing the Giants to show their support for the club. Staff and volunteers at The Huddle admire Ayden’s commitment to the Huddle Up! Program. The energy he brings to each session with a big smile on his face makes The Huddle staff excited to see him each week! Previous Next

The Huddle will begin delivering its award-winning programs in new locations from July < Back The Huddle partners with YMCA Victoria Riley Goodwin 16 June 2022 The Huddle will begin delivering its award-winning programs in new locations from July The Huddle will begin delivering its award-winning programs in new locations from July after the Active Melbourne Recreation Facilities contract was awarded to the YMCA of Victoria in partnership with The Huddle. Active Melbourne is the City of Melbourne’s Sport and Recreation team who work to provide facilities, programs and services that connect the community. After an extensive tender process, the Active Melbourne contract will see The Huddle’s outreach programs being delivered across 9 venues including the North Melbourne Community Centre and the Hub@Docklands. All of The Huddle’s programs are free, inclusive and accessible with a focus on connecting and empowering young people to learn, grow and belong. Programs will include school holiday activities, camping retreats, women’s workouts, study support, career readiness and employment opportunities. “We are thrilled and sincerely thank the City of Melbourne for the opportunity to expand our community outreach programs further across Melbourne,” The Huddle CEO Cam McLeod said. “We also extend our thanks to the YMCA and look forward to continuing to work with them. “Since 2010, The Huddle’s core focus has been to strengthen social inclusion, education and careers for young people and we are excited at the opportunity this partnership will bring. “The YMCA’s focus on inclusivity and connection to their communities falls in line with our values at The Huddle, so our relationship is a great fit.” Previous Next

The Huddle is excited to announce its new strategy for 2024-2026, designed to empower all young people to feel like they belong in the places they learn, work, and play. < Back The Huddle launches new 2024-2026 strategy 16 Sept 2024 The Huddle is excited to announce its new strategy for 2024-2026, designed to empower all young people to feel like they belong in the places they learn, work, and play. Our commitment is to enhance education and career outcomes for young people through the power of sport. We’re focused on reimagining education and career programs, creating safe and welcoming spaces, delivering engaging experiences, and showcasing the talents of every young person. To achieve this, our key areas of focus are: Operational Excellence: We’re streamlining our processes and empowering our team to efficiently deliver on our strategic outcomes. Bold, Progressive, and Embedded in Community: We’re enhancing our programs and increasing accessibility to engage more young people more frequently through schools, communities, and digital platforms. Grow Sustainable Funding: We’ll diversify our funding sources and strengthen partnerships to support our current work and explore new opportunities. Tell Our Story: We’ll amplify the voices and stories of young people in our programs to raise awareness and highlight our collective impact. We’re thrilled about this next chapter and eager to see the positive changes it will bring. To view the strategy, click here . Previous Next

< Back Empowering Early Careers Howard's Story Emily Maiorana Previous Next

The Huddle Holiday Juniors hone their skills in Aussie Rules and Soccer! < Back Warming up this winter with AFL and Soccer clinics 4 July 2024 The Huddle Holiday Juniors hone their skills in Aussie Rules and Soccer! The Huddle Holiday Sports Clinic at Avalon Airport Oval, home of the Werribee Football Club, offered young sports enthusiasts a day of soccer and AFL training to enhance skills and promote teamwork. The engaging sessions included drills and skill games to challenge and develop abilities. The Cart Co team's warm hospitality with hot chocolate and coffee added to the festive atmosphere, keeping participants cozy. The blend of sportsmanship, skill-building, and comfort provided a holistic experience, leaving a lasting impression on young athletes for a memorable day of learning and fun. Previous Next

That’s a wrap! Reliving and remembering the Summer Huddle Holidays! < Back Recapping Huddle Holidays Summer 2025 Patrick McPhee 3 Feb 2025 That’s a wrap! Reliving and remembering the Summer Huddle Holidays! That’s a wrap! Summer Huddle Holidays 2025 has come to an end, and what a massive two weeks it was! Huddle Holidays is a school holiday program offered at the end of each school term for primary and secondary school students aged 8-18. The program provides children and young people with opportunities to try new experiences, developing their skills and capacity across social inclusion, health and emotional wellbeing, leadership, education, and careers.  This year our summer programming was set between Tuesday, January 14th and Thursday, January 23rd. Over the two weeks, we fit in 4 junior activities and 2 senior ones. It was action packed! This Huddle Holidays saw our Juniors (aged 8- to 12-years-old), participate in an Arts and Craft Day, a trip to Anglesea Beach, a visit at the Australian Sports Museum and a Multi-Sport Clinic. As the first of our four sets of holiday activities in 2025, the focus was on building connections with their peers. Throughout all junior activities, our participants were placed in small groups built around their ages to promote safety and inclusion. Following the holidays, one participant acknowledged that a highlight was, “I like meeting other kids around my age and trying out new activities.” What an awesome reflection! Our first activity of the year was our Junior Summer Arts and Craft Day. Here, the participants started off by getting to know their small groups with fun icebreaker activities focused around learning names and setting up our holidays for success! Next, we broke into groups, half of the participants engaged their creative side in a choose- your-own-adventure craft space. Some young people folded paper aeroplanes, others choose to draw or colour in, but the biggest hit was beading! Young people created bracelets and necklaces, some for themselves, some for friends and some for family! One participant expressed that they “loved making friendship bracelets” and that The Huddle staff were “really lovely and helped him.” The other half of our participants embraced their active side, through playing drama games and circle activities aimed at providing the group opportunities to get active and mingle amongst the whole group. After a quick snack break, our participants switched spaces and got to try their hand at the other half! At the conclusion of the day, we launched our Huddle Hero awards. Huddle Hero prizes are a big hit here at The Huddle, and at all our events and programs we recognise participants who go above and beyond to demonstrate some amazing traits including teamwork, talking to new people and engaging fully in the activity. Our Huddle Hero awards continued throughout the Junior holiday activities. Next up for the Juniors was the annual Anglesea Beach trip. This was a massive highlight! Upon arriving at Anglesea, our participants were greeting by the amazing team at the Anglesea Surf Lifesaving Club who helped them all to squeeze into wetsuits before a session on Water Safety. From here, every participant was paired with a water safety team member to support them in the water – then it was into the waves! The Anglesea volunteers were amazing supporters for the young people on the water, encouraging them to build their confidence and helping them to surf! On reflection from this activity, The Huddle staff felt it was a record number of young people standing up on the boards and this is a credit to the amazing work by the Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club. After the water session, the participants enjoyed a BBQ lunch prepared by even more Anglesea volunteers. Many young people expressed their love for this activity, but a highlight was a participant sharing, “thank you for organising these activities, because of today I have spoken to my mum, she is going to bring me back here to hire a surfboard and continue practicing, because I had so much fun!” Returning to Anglesea each year is a special opportunity for The Huddle community to build its connection with the Surf Life Saving Club while participants develop lifelong skills in a controlled and safe environment. The Huddle wishes to thank the Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club for their ongoing support of our program! The second week of Huddle Holidays started with the Junior participants visiting the Australian Sports Museum at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The group started in the Game On exhibit. This fun space offered many little tasters of different sports including AFL, Netball, Soccer, Surfing, Cycling, and more! The exhibit also had other physical challenges including reflex tests and catching. Following the exhibit, the group headed into the museum which used engaging displays to share some insight into the history of many different Australian sports. Participants really enjoyed learning more about their favourite sports, and some new ones! The final junior activity was our Multi-Sport Clinic held at the North Melbourne Community Centre. Young people engaged in four sports lessons facilitated by some of our Huddle Up! Leaders. Huddle Up! is The Huddle’s sports and recreation program that runs out of multiple locations in Wyndham and Melbourne throughout school terms. Learn more about Huddle Up! Junior (5-12-years-old) and Senior (13+ years-old) here: Huddle Up! Junior - Huddle Up! Senior . In age-appropriate groups, our Juniors engaged in different hands-on activities aiming to further their interest and skills in sports such as AFL, Soccer, Basketball and even Juggling! It was clear throughout the day that this was all a lot of fun for people of all skill levels. One mother shared “My daughter is not naturally gifted with sports, but she was so motivated to win a prize for her group that it's really built up her confidence and enthusiasm for different sports.” The Multi-Sport Clinic was an exciting way to close out our Junior activities for Summer 2025 and we look forward to seeing everyone back in Autumn! Our Seniors (13- to 18-years-old) had the opportunity these holidays to enjoy a day at the Australian Open and to try their skills in a round of Bowling and Mini-Golf. One participant shared that a highlight for the holiday period was, “I get to meet new people and try out things I wouldn’t have otherwise tried”. Like the Junior program, a focus of the Senior activities was to provide opportunities to connect with new people and try new things. Our first Senior activity at the Australian Open was supported by the Australian Tennis Foundation’s Brighter Days program. Through this, the Foundation generously provided tickets for our participants to attend the tennis and hand-delivering some gift bags – talk about spoiled! The Seniors spent time watching the eventual Australian Open winner Jannik Sinner’s open training session and past winner Naomi Osaka’s round 1 match. Some participants shared that this was their first time watching the tennis and the group spent some of the day’s downtime getting to know each other while teaching each other the rules of the game. It was a hit! The other Senior activity was Bowling and Mini-Golf at Strike in Point Cook. Bowling and Mini-Golf set the scene for the competitions on the day, but the real winner was a day spent in teams, providing the opportunity to meet and connect with people they otherwise wouldn’t. One participant stated, “I liked how inclusive everyone was, it felt good to know that you will always have fun no matter who you are with.” We love to hear it! Thanks to our participants, their families, activity providers and partners – Victorian Department of Education and Bendigo Bank Seddon. We couldn’t have this much fun without you! Watch the highlight recap of the Summer Huddle Holidays HERE. Huddle Holidays will return in April 2025 with an all-new, exciting range of activities across both Junior and Senior age groups. If you would like any further information or to join our email list so you can be notified when we launch registrations, please email huddle@nmfc.com.au .  Previous Next

Over 330 young people came together to learn new skills, build friendships, and grow together. < Back Learning, Playing, Thriving at Huddle Holidays Spring 2025 Patrick McPhee 24 Oct 2025 Over 330 young people came together to learn new skills, build friendships, and grow together. Huddle Holidays Spring 2025 has officially wrapped up after an incredible couple of weeks that saw over 330 attendances across seven activities in both our Junior and Senior programs! Huddle Holidays provides children and young people with opportunities to try new experiences, build confidence, and develop skills across areas such as social inclusion, health and wellbeing, leadership, education, and careers. Junior Program (8–12 years old) Our juniors made lasting memories this spring through a range of engaging and fun activities. They explored the underwater world at Melbourne Sea Life, connected to land, sky, water, and community through our First Nations Art Workshop and NMCC Mural activity, tested their athletic abilities at the Wyndham Multi-Sport Clinic, and discovered something new with Welcome to Netball. Many participants shared that their favourite part of the holidays was experiencing “different activities,” highlighting the program’s value in providing opportunities that might not otherwise be available to them. Melbourne Sea Life The Junior program launched with a hugely popular trip to Melbourne Sea Life, which booked out within hours! Participants created new memories while learning about marine life and ways to contribute to ocean sustainability. For many, it was their first-ever aquarium visit — their excitement was clear throughout the self-guided tour. A parent from Wyndham shared their appreciation for the program’s inclusiveness: “The inclusiveness. Coming to pick up kids in outer suburbs so we can attend.” Belonging is a core value of Huddle Holidays, and ensuring families feel supported and included is a key part of what makes the program special. First Nations Art Workshop & NMCC Mural Next up, participants got creative and connected with community through the First Nations Art Workshop and NMCC Mural. The session was led by Emma Bamblett, a proud Wemba Wemba woman with connections to the Ngadjonji, Gunditjmara, and Taungurung peoples. Emma shared the Dreamtime story of Bunjil the Eagle and invited participants to reimagine and interpret it on canvas, exploring key themes such as connection to Country (land, sky, and water) and community. Alongside this, participants helped begin painting a mural at the North Melbourne Community Centre, using paint and supplies generously provided by Dulux. Allysha Morris from the Centre guided the group in designing their own individual bricks to represent their personal connection to community. Participants later shared that their favourite parts were “connecting to the community” and “learning about Aboriginal art.” Wyndham Multi-Sport Clinic Our next stop was the Wyndham Multi-Sport Clinic at Mainview Boulevard Reserve, Truganina. This event welcomed many new young people to Huddle Holidays for the first time! Despite strong winds, participants had a fantastic time learning Aussie Rules Football and Soccer. One participant shared: “I learnt a new sport and made friends.” This activity supported Huddle Holidays’ goal of enhancing health and wellbeing by encouraging physical activity and social connection. The clinic also marked the launch of Huddle Up! Junior Truganina — a free weekly multi-sport program for primary school students held at the same location. For more information and to register, click here HERE. Welcome to Netball Our Junior program wrapped up with Welcome to Netball, facilitated by our friends at Netball Victoria. Four community coaches led participants — many trying the sport for the first time — through foundational skills, reaction challenges, and teamwork exercises. It was wonderful to see participants’ confidence grow as they became more comfortable with the game and their teammates. Senior Program (13–18 years old) The Senior program kicked off with a free First Aid and CPR course delivered by Hero HQ, a company that specialises in teaching young people vital lifesaving skills. Participants gained valuable, accredited qualifications that enhance both their community contribution and career prospects. Offering free, job-relevant training is one of the many ways The Huddle supports young people’s career development. Huddle Volleyball Tournament Next came the return of the much-loved Huddle Volleyball Tournament, one of our most requested activities! This year, 16 teams competed in a day-long event showcasing our young people’s athleticism, teamwork, and sportsmanship. A regular participant shared: “I loved how many people showed up to the tournament and how much volleyball has grown over the past few years. I find Huddle a great place to play — and it costs nothing, giving everyone a chance to join in.” Providing free, inclusive sporting opportunities is made possible thanks to the generous support of our partners, particularly the Victorian Department of Education and Community Bank Seddon. Laser Tag & Arcade Session The final Senior activity was a Laser Tag and Arcade session in the Docklands. This event helped young people transitioning from the Junior to Senior program build new friendships while having fun in a team-based environment. Participants collaborated to win Laser Tag rounds and supported one another to reach for high scores in the arcade. A huge thank you to all our participants, families, activity providers, volunteers, and partners — we couldn’t have done it without you! Huddle Holidays will return in January 2026 with a brand-new lineup of exciting activities for both Junior and Senior age groups. For more information or to join our mailing list for registration updates, please contact huddle@nmfc.com.au . Previous Next

< Back Meet Nyra: Kicking Goals On and Off the Field From sport to study sessions, 8-year-old Nyra is making the most of every opportunity at The Huddle — and loving every minute of it. Patrick McPhee Previous Next

< Back Empowering Young Women to Learn, Grow and Belong with the River Nile School The River Nile School has partnered with The Huddle to empower students' leadership and sense of belonging. Josh Raymer Previous Next

< Back Female Sports Tournament Hosted by Carlton Baths, in partnership with Jump Ball Previous Next