About Us

GIPPSLAND UNITED

Gippsland United Basketball is the region’s leading representative basketball organisation, proudly uniting players, coaches, officials, and supporters from across the Gippsland region under one banner. Established to provide a clear and cohesive pathway for basketball development, Gippsland United brings together the strength of local associations with a shared vision for high-performance, inclusion, and regional pride.

Formed through the collaboration of key associations across Gippsland, our club represents a strategic step forward in delivering elite-level basketball opportunities for athletes from grassroots to senior levels. Gippsland United competes in both the Victorian Junior Basketball League (VJBL) and Big V competitions, ensuring local talent can progress without needing to leave the region to pursue their basketball goals.

At the heart of our club is our Strategic Plan, which guides everything we do across four key pillars:

  • Player Development: Providing access to high-quality coaching, competition, and resources that nurture individual and team growth.

  • Coach & Official Pathways: Investing in the education, support, and recognition of our coaches and referees to strengthen the game at every level.

  • Club Culture & Community: Fostering a united, inclusive, and professional environment that represents the diversity and values of Gippsland.

  • Sustainable Growth: Building strong governance, financial health, and partnerships to secure the club’s long-term success.

Our structure reflects a unified approach, with a governance model that involves key regional stakeholders and dedicated leadership through our Basketball Operations team, Director of Coaching & Development, and community volunteers.

Today, Gippsland United stands as more than just a club—it’s a movement for basketball in our region. From Pakenham to Orbost, and Phillip Island to Sale, we are committed to creating a legacy of excellence, opportunity, and unity for every Gippsland athlete.

Staff

Simon Whelan

Basketball Operations Manager

Simon is an experienced sports administrator with a strong background across both elite and community sport. Before joining Gippsland United as Basketball Operations Manager, Simon held key roles with prominent organisations including the Richmond Football Club, Essendon Football Club, Melbourne Boomers WNBL, and AFL Gippsland. His career has spanned business development, operations, and community engagement—equipping him with the strategic and hands-on experience to lead Gippsland United’s growth across the region. Passionate about building sustainable sporting pathways, Simon brings a collaborative, development-focused approach to all levels of the game

Life Members

Role Members Name
Administrator Frank Metcalf
Administrator Larry Muir
Administrator Peter Ruane
Administrator Ron Brooks
Administrator Barb Harvey
Administrator David Roberts
Administrator Barry Herbert
Coach Marty Handson
Player Duncan Brooks
Player Mark Van Dyk
Player Simon Vannapraseuth
Player Laura Vannapraseuth (nee Joyce)
Player Vashon Weaver
Player Megan Eenjes
Official Boun Vannapraseuth