NSW Elite Basketball Scholarship marks new era for women in sport at UNSW

Wollemi Capital Group, led by UNSW Sydney alum Dr Robyn Denholm and her children Victoria and Matthew Denholm, have partnered with the University to establish the NSW Elite Basketball Scholarship.

This scholarship will support female students who are making significant contributions to the basketball community, both on and off the court. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a student who is working with professional basketball organisations, the UNSW Basketball Club, or involved with other basketball-related initiatives.

“This scholarship is about more than just basketball,” said Victoria Denholm, also a UNSW alum. “It’s about creating a pathway for women in sport, supporting their ambitions, and giving them the chance to excel both academically and athletically. We believe that investing in young women today will have a ripple effect on the future of sport, and we’re excited to see the positive impact this award will have.”

Dr Denholm’s children, Matthew and Victoria, recently met with UNSW Vice-Chancellor Professor Attila Brungs to discuss how their meaningful gift can help women excel in basketball, both at the University and beyond.

“We understand the barriers that exist for women in sport,” said Matthew Denholm, reflecting on his family’s motivation to create the scholarship. “This award is about giving women the chance to break through those barriers and pursue their dreams with confidence. We’re proud to support that journey.”

“Basketball has always been a significant part of our lives,” Victoria Denholm shared. “I’m thrilled that through this scholarship, we’ll be able to offer opportunities to women who share that same passion. It’s about ensuring they have the support they need to succeed—on the court, in the classroom, and beyond.”

The UNSW Basketball club played their inaugural season this year in the University Basketball League, so this scholarship comes at an opportune moment.

The gift reflects UNSW’s dedication to the holistic development of students and athletes alike, as part of the UNSW Elite Athlete Program. The University offers flexible entry and study options for elite athletes, ensuring they can balance the demands of sport and education. This structure enables athletes to maintain their competitive edge while also preparing for careers after their time in the sporting arena.

Moreover, the NSW Elite Basketball Award aligns with UNSW’s Active Women’s Strategy, a first by any University in Australia, aimed at enhancing opportunities for women in sport across various levels and platforms and encouraging more young women to pursue athletic careers.

“This scholarship demonstrates our commitment to supporting female athletes in every possible way,” said UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Attila Brungs. “It’s a bold step towards creating new opportunities and ensuring that women in sport have the resources, guidance, and flexibility to succeed both on and off the court. We are proud to partner with UNSW alum Dr Robyn Denholm and her family on such an important initiative.”

For the Wollemi Capital Group, the NSW Elite Basketball Award is a way to give back to the community by supporting those who’ll make a difference in the world of sport. Their vision for the scholarship is not just about winning games, but about nurturing the next generation of female leaders in basketball, both on the court and beyond.

The Wollemi Capital Group is actively involved in promoting basketball in Australia. Through Wollemi Capital Group they are a part owner of the Women’s National Basketball League and own a majority share of the Sydney Flames and Sydney Kings teams. Dr. Robyn Denholm is a Business School alumna and has supported Girls in Business Camp at UNSW since 2019. Victoria Denholm is Business School alumna and former Sessional Teacher at UNSW.

The NSW Elite Basketball Award is now open to apply for 2025.