Deakin backs Melbourne Boomers as naming rights partner

Deakin University will continue as the naming rights partner of the Deakin Melbourne Boomers for another two years in a move that underscores the University’s commitment to women’s sport.  

Deakin has been the naming rights partner of the team since 2015 and the decade-long partnership has provided exciting internship opportunities for students with the WNBL Club. 

Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said women’s sport had made great strides in recent years, with women’s leagues established in traditionally male-dominated sports and Australian female athletes performing strongly on the world stage.  

Professor Martin said the partnership with the Deakin Melbourne Boomers sat at the nexus of education and sport.  

Deakin boasts the #1 science school in the world and he said the University was steadfast in its support for students and female athletes to achieve their potential. 

“The Deakin Melbourne Boomers are a formidable force both on and off the court, drawing record-breaking crowds to their games and acting as role models for the younger generation,” Professor Martin said. 

“In partnering with the team, Deakin has aligned itself with an organisation as devoted and passionate about inspiring female athletes and students as we are.  

“Building the foundations for success takes dedication and hard work, but also the coaching and guidance of experts at the top of their game and friends to support you every step of the way. The Deakin Melbourne Boomers are among the best in the game, and our students are valued for having studied and worked with the best in their field.” 

Deakin Melbourne Boomers Executive Chair, Tony Hallam was keen to emphasise the depth of the partnership. 

“Women’s sport continues to make great strides in recent times, but the reality is that the industry needs authentic supporters such as Deakin to ensure the necessary funding and investment is possible to fuel this growth” 

“Our organisation strives to make a difference for women through basketball and Deakin have been working side-by-side with us on this purpose for the best part of a decade.  It is with both appreciation and pride that we announce this extension to 2026” said Hallam. 

“The partnership is deep and wide in its impact across both our organisations, including Deakin students undertaking a wide range of placements at our club as part of their progressive, real-world learning. Many of them have made significant contributions to our organisation and, in turn, to women’s sport in Australia.”