As the new NBL season gets underway, Tasmania’s leading not-for-profit health and wellness organisation St Lukes is making JackJumpers games more accessible for fans who love basketball, but not the sensory overload of game day.
The St Lukes Quiet Space at MyState Bank Arena provides a dedicated low-sensory environment for fans to take a break from the game and regulate as they need. Sensory packs containing earmuffs, sunglasses, fidget toys, and blankets are also available to support a more comfortable game-day experience.
The initiative forms part of St Lukes’ Diversity and Inclusion partnership with the Tasmania JackJumpers.
Chief Community Engagement Officer Shoshana Wall said the partnership reflects St Lukes’ commitment to removing barriers to participation and allows more Tasmanians to enjoy the excitement and community connection that sport brings.
“The St Lukes Quiet Space at MyState Bank Arena helps ensure more Tasmanians can enjoy being part of the Ant Army in a way that feels comfortable, safe, and supportive for them,” Ms Wall said.
“We’re proud to provide a Quiet Space during NBL and WNBL games built on learnings from mainland venues that are doing this really well. The sensory packs were also developed alongside occupational therapists to make the courtside experience more comfortable.
“Sport is for everyone. This initiative levels the playing field for young fans, or fans of any age with sensory challenges. Helping more Tasmanians celebrate their love of sport and build community connection is part of St Lukes’ vision of making Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet.”
Avid sports fan and commentator Andy “Tubes” Taylor applauded the initiative to make game day enjoyable for all.
“As a family we love coming to JackJumpers games, but the lights, music and roar of the crowd can be a lot for any young child,” he said.
“Kids want to be a part of the action, but sometimes you just need a break. My kids have already benefited from the sensory packs, helping them feel comfortable in the stands. Now, having a quiet space that’s open to any level of need is fantastic, because if it gets too much, we don’t have to hang around in the foyer or just leave.
“I’m so proud of our growing Tasmanian sporting community. The more people who can be part of it through initiatives like these, the stronger we are. It feels good to be included.”
JackJumpers CEO Trent Jacobs said the St Lukes Quiet Space at MyState Bank Arena helps ensure more Tasmanians can enjoy JackJumpers and Jewels games.
“We want our fan experience to be unparalleled and inclusive,” he said. “To achieve this, we recognise we have to develop bespoke opportunities and areas, and this particular initiative will add so much value for those with sensory sensitivity.
“We would like to thank St Lukes for their ongoing support of the JackJumpers as our Diversity and Inclusion partner. We embrace their vision to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet and will continue to support their innovation regarding preventative health and community inclusivity."
The St Lukes Sensory Packs and Quiet Space are available to all attendees at JackJumpers home games and selected family friendly events at MyState Bank Arena. Simply request a pack or room access from the MyState Bank Arena service desk – St Lukes membership or medical diagnoses are not required.
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