Merrifield Panthers Case Study
MAB proudly supporting the establishment of grassroots community sport.
Project Overview
In 2018, MAB launched the Merrifield Community Partnerships Program (MCPP) and funded a local Merrifield Auskick program. The Auskick program strongly aligned with MAB’s goal to support initiatives that continue to improve the health and wellbeing of the Merrifield community.
The Merrifield Auskick program was well attended during the season and its early success proved to be the catalyst for a small, dedicated group of local parents to come together to create the Merrifield Panthers Sporting Association. The Merrifield Panthers were eager to provide more sporting opportunities for the community and it didn’t take long for the addition of junior basketball in 2019.
The growth and expansion of the Merrifield Panthers has continued with several new sports introduced in recent years, leading to a strong presence across many local junior competitions in basketball, cricket, tennis and football. In 2022, the Merrifield Panthers became the lead tenant for the Merrifield Recreation Reserve – Sports Pavilion.
MAB has continued to be a proud supporter of the Merrifield Panthers, providing over $20,000 of funding via the MCPP over the years. The funding provided has been used to assist with operations including, insurance, purchasing uniforms, equipment and subsidising participant fees.
In 2023, MAB became the inaugural premium sponsor, continuing the support for the Merrifield Panthers and the local community. Since this time, the Merrifield Panthers have become the lead sporting association for Mickleham and surrounding suburbs, offering junior programs in basketball, cricket, tennis, football and soccer to over 400 participants in the local area.
Sustainable Values and Goals Achieved
Brand Value: People Connections
MAB Promise: Engaged Communities and Customers
ESG Pillar: Social Connected Communities (Health and Wellbeing, Community Engagement)
United Nations Sustainable Development Goal: 3 Good Health and Wellbeing
Impact and Performance
• First commenced through the local Auskick Program for 20 children, funded by the Merrifield Community Partnerships Program (MCPP).
• Merrifield Panthers Sporting Association was created in 2019 and they are now the leading sporting association for Merrifield and the surrounding community.
• The Merrifield Panthers now have over 400 participants across four sports: Basketball, Cricket, Football and Tennis.
• Over 60 volunteers including: administration, coaching and team support staff.
• MAB has provided over $20,000 in funding via MCPP since inception.
• Merrifield Recreation Reserve, the home of the Merrifield Panthers.
