The Canberra Citizen of the Year is the reigning champion of the Women’s National Basketball League, the University of Canberra (UC) Capitals and its supporters.
The all-conquering team was named Canberra Citizen of the Year for 2019 in recognition of its contribution to the local community.
Announcing the unusual move, Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the Canberra Citizen of the Year was presented each year to an individual, or a group, who had made an outstanding contribution to the Canberra community.
“This year the Canberra Citizen of the Year Award recognises the entire UC Capitals family, including players, coaches, volunteer support staff and local fans who supported the team to victory,” Mr Barr said.
He said the Capitals came back from a 13-game losing streak in the previous season to a 12-game winning streak in the lead-up to this year’s grand final series against the Adelaide Lightning.
Mr Barr said the Government was working to remove cultural and structural barriers which prevent girls and women getting involved in sport.
“We are celebrating the achievements of a sporting club which inspires young people in our community and demonstrates the importance of team work, shared values and healthy and active living,” he said.
General Manager of the Capitals, Lucille Bailie said the victory was by no means a small achievement, or the achievement of one individual.
“It took the whole team, the staff, the families, friends and, of course, fans to achieve this result,” Ms Bailie said.
