The expansion of the Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball League brings a wave of fresh faces to the scene but there are few rookies with experience like Wollongong’s own Didem Yildirim.

 

‘Dids’ has been playing wheelchair basketball for a decade and a half but until now has turned down opportunities to play in the WNWBL. This season she will suit up for Sydney Uni.

“I've been playing for over 15 years and I have been approached a few times about joining the women's national league. Due to work I was never available on weekends to play, but now I have a Monday to Friday job so I'm free to play,” said Yildirim.

It still took some convincing from Sydney Uni team manager Phyllis Dodd for her to finally make the move to the WNWBL.

“It was at the finals last year and we were having a chat about it randomly. Let's say she pressured me to play,” laughs Yildirim. “But in a good way. She said would look after me during it which eased my mind.”

“My arm was twisted, but at the same time I thought it was time to have a go, it was way overdue.”

Yildirim took up the sport alongside partner and now Roller Hawks team manager James Williams when James' dad Jim, was coach.

“James’ dad was the coach for the Wollongong Roller Hawks back in the day so we both were introduced this way to the sport.  We have been training every Wednesday for over 15 years.”

“I never played sports as a child due to my hip condition. I was not allowed to play any strenuous sports as advised by my doctor.  So wheelchair basketball has been a great sport to play for so many years. Best choice made.”

‘Dids’ is coming off a successful Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT Club Challenge series, winning Female MVP and helping the Illawarra development team, the Illawarra Eagles take out the Club League title.

“I performed pretty well over the Club Challenge rounds and even got MVP in four out of the five rounds I played in, and then MVP for the entire series. I shot really well and received a lot of praise from other players.”

Despite years of experience including training with the Roller Hawks senior side, Yildirim admits there are a few nerves going into the first round against the Sydney Blues.

“A little bit nervous as it's my first time playing in the national league but once I get on that court I’ll be fine. My team is supportive and is happy to help when I need to ask questions.”

“(I’m) feeling pretty good about playing in national league. It’s something different to try out and I get to experience playing with the strict rules, shot clock etcetera,  I am looking forward to playing in a women’s team as my local team are all men!”

The WNWBL tips off on Friday, May 30th with Sydney Uni, led by Roller Hawk Hannah Dodd, hosting crosstown rivals the Sydney Blues at Sydney Uni Sports with the Friday night fixture live streamed on the WBA Youtube Channel. 

Newcomers Victoria and Adelaide meet in Melbourne and the Gold Coast Rollers take on the Perth Wheelcats.

The Just Better Care Roller Hawks’ season begins June 27th against the Manly Wheel Eagles.

 

Full NWBL & WNWBL Fixture: Wheelchair Basketball Australia | Fixtures