Introducing Yarra vs Yarra
This October, Collingwood Basketball Association is proud to launch Yarra vs Yarra, an exciting new six-week youth basketball league designed to bring together young people from across Melbourne’s inner north through sport, culture and community.
Running every Sunday from 18 October to 22 November 2026, the league will feature 6–8 teams representing local communities including Collingwood, Fitzroy, Richmond, Carlton, Prahran and Yarra. Players aged 14–19 years will compete in a unique competition that celebrates local pride while building friendships, leadership, and belonging.
More than just basketball, Yarra vs Yarra combines sport with music, media and creative opportunities, providing young people with a platform to express themselves both on and off the court.
More Than a League
Participants will experience:
- Competitive weekly basketball games
- Professional Media Day with player portraits and team photography
- Live DJs creating an exciting game-day atmosphere
- Live MCs providing commentary and entertainment
- Photography and videography throughout the competition
- Player interviews and behind-the-scenes content
- Game highlights and Player of the Game recognition
- Opportunities for young creatives to gain experience in sports media and content
- creation
Community First
The program has been developed to create positive opportunities for the next generation by connecting basketball with creativity and community.
Throughout the league, players, artists and young creatives will collaborate to tell the stories of their neighborhoods through a range of campaigns celebrating local identity, including themes such as:
- One River. Two Sides.
- Who Owns the Yarra?
By encouraging friendly suburb rivalries while promoting respect and inclusion, Yarra vs Yarra aims to strengthen community connections and inspire pride in Melbourne’s diverse neighborhoods.
Purpose
Yarra vs Yarra is built on one simple vision: to create opportunities for young people to connect, grow and represent their community through basketball.
The program reflects the Collingwood Basketball Association’s commitment to creating healthy communities by providing safe, inclusive and engaging experiences that extend well beyond the game.
Basketball. Culture. Creativity. Community.
League Dates
Every Sunday | 18 October – 22 November 2026
We look forward to welcoming players, families, and supporters as we launch this exciting new community initiative.
For more information, contact Community Development Officer, Chol Dut a chol.dut@collingwoodbasketballl.com.au.