Gisborne Bulldogs Basketball Club recently kicked off the first of three Athlete63 workshops designed to empower young female athletes both on and off the court.
Held at the Bulldogs’ home courts, the event attracted enthusiastic participation from girls across various age groups.
Athlete63, founded by the inspiring Layla Prince, is renowned for its holistic approach to athlete development.
Prince’s vision extends beyond physical training — she aims to cultivate resilience, leadership and mental strength in young athletes, qualities that are just as valuable in life as they are in sports. By nurturing the mindset of future leaders and game-changers, Athlete63 helps young athletes excel in all aspects of their lives.
This workshop was the first in a series of three that the Bulldogs will be hosting with Athlete63, with the remaining two scheduled for the upcoming winter basketball season. During the session, participants engaged in interactive sessions focused on personal growth. They learned about goal-setting, overcoming challenges and maintaining a positive mindset through adversity.
A highlight of the day was Layla Prince’s motivational talk, where she shared her own journey as an athlete and emphasized the importance of resilience and perseverance. Her words inspired the girls to embrace leadership roles, celebrate their individuality and support one another both on and off the court.
The success of the workshop was made possible thanks to the support of Bendigo Bank and Ozito DIY. Bendigo Bank known for its dedication to investing in the community, continues to empower the next generation by backing initiatives that strengthen and inspire local youth. Meanwhile, Ozito DIY’s sponsorship is helping provide young athletes with opportunities to grow and achieve their best.
Parents and club officials were thrilled by the workshop’s impact, praising the Bulldogs for their commitment to fostering personal growth and empowerment among their young athletes.
“It’s about more than basketball. It’s about giving these girls the tools to be strong, confident, and capable both on and off the court,” one of the club’s representatives said.
The Gisborne Bulldogs Basketball Club’s partnership with Athlete63 and Layla Prince is a testament to their dedication to building a positive, inclusive environment where young female athletes can thrive. With two more workshops on the horizon, the excitement is building for what promises to be an empowering and inspiring journey.
