Australia Wins Women’s 5×5 Basketball Gold in Astana

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The women’s 5×5 basketball competition at the 2025 VIBF World Basketball Championships wrapped up in Astana, Kazakhstan, with Australia winning the gold medal after three well-played matches against a developing Spanish team.

The Australian Pearls, known for their strong team culture and experience, secured the series with scores of 100–21, 107–24, and 84–19. While the results show a clear win, both teams gained something meaningful from the tournament—experience, growth and pride in representing their countries.

Every Player Contributed

The Australian team worked hard across the tournament and showed why they are considered one of the strongest women’s programs in the world. Their teamwork, communication and preparation paid off. Each athlete played their part on and off the court.

Brittany Anderson, from New South Wales, was awarded Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the women’s competition.

“I feel really privileged to get that award. It means a lot to me.” Brittany said.

Team member Taylor Anderson also added:

“We’d like to thank everyone back in Victoria who supported us—our coaches, families, friends, and the Pearls community.”

A First-Time Experience for Some

For Jayne Brownlee, it was extra special—she was the only player from South Australia.

“Practice, work hard and you’ll get there. I had a lot of people help me train. Especially my mum. This medal is for everyone who supported me.”

“We wanted to finish the tournament strong, and we did. Everyone got minutes, shared the ball, and played for each other. It was a true team game.”

Australian and Spanish players in action at the gold medal match. Photo Credit: IDSport

Spain’s Return Inspires All

Team Spain’s return to women’s competition was one of the tournament’s most uplifting stories. After several years away from international play, Spain arrived ready to learn, grow, and represent.

“It was great to see the whole Spanish team—including staff—embrace every learning opportunity. This tournament wasn’t just about games. For many of them, it was their first time overseas. In Astana—a foreign place—they got to see and enjoy the world because of basketball”, said Barry Holman, VIBF Committee Member.

“They played with heart and improved every match. More importantly, they learned what it means to represent their country with professionalism, pride and resilience”, he further added.

The Australian coaching team echoed this:

“Spain improved with every game. It’s the beginning of something meaningful. We’re already in talks about how we can help support the growth of their program going forward.”

Decades of Progress, and a Future of Possibility

Team Australia’s women’s program is now a global benchmark—but that success didn’t happen overnight.

“We’ve had three decades of building this. We remember when we had to fight for opportunities. Now we’re a model for others—not because of medals, but because of our commitment to the athletes,” a team official told Virtus.

“This has been one of the best tournaments we’ve ever attended. The organising committee, the hospitality, the local support—it’s been exceptional.”

And their message to other countries just starting their women’s programs?

“Stick with it. It won’t always be easy. But these athletes gain more than medals—they gain confidence, independence, and a chance to explore the world. It changes lives.”

A Movement in Motion

The 2025 Women’s 5×5 Championships weren’t just a victory for Australia—they were a victory for the global movement for inclusion through basketball. Every match played was a story of resilience, sisterhood, and empowerment. The future of women’s basketball in Virtus is no longer just an ambition—it’s a reality in action.

Up Next: Men’s 5×5 Finals – Saturday, 21 June

Bronze Medal Match – 10:00 AM

Gold Medal Match – 12:15 PM

Watch live and be part of the next chapter in inclusive sport.

VIBF 5×5 World Basketball Championships Kicks Off At Astana, Kazakhstan

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The first day of the VIBF 5×5 World Basketball Championships delivered a strong start to this important format of inclusive basketball, where passion met precision on the court. While 3×3 basketball is on its path toward Paralympic re-inclusion, the 5×5 format remains a critical and evolving platform, offering athletes with an intellectual impairment a chance to compete under full FIBA rules, embracing the strategy, structure and stamina that define the traditional game.
Today’s matches showcased a different rhythm and intensity. With more structured play and on-court communication, teams relied on strategy as much as speed, pushing end-to-end with purpose and coordination. Every possession mattered.

Australia and Spain at the VIBF World 5×5 Basketball Championship. Photo Credit: IDSport

Australia dominated both the men’s and women’s games with strong performances (Men: 155–30 over Spain; Women: 100–21 over Spain). Japan and Portugal played a thrilling men’s encounter, with Japan edging out a 5-point win (84–79) in a game marked by tactical shifts and terrific teamwork. These matches weren’t just about scoring — they were about reading the game, adjusting plays and responding as a unit.
“We have seen some terrific teamwork and strong team performances in today’s games.  It is a pleasure to watch the hard work by teams in their preparation coming to fruition in these championships.  I’m really looking forward to tomorrow’s games.”  Tony Guihot, Technical Director, Virtus International Basketball Federation (VIBF)
VIBF’s commitment to the development of both formats — 3×3 and 5×5 — ensures that more athletes have pathways to compete, grow, and shine. With every game, VIBF is not just building competition — it’s building the future of inclusive basketball.
Full results can be accessed from here.

Double Victory For Australia, Win’s Both Men’s and Woemn’s VIBF 3×3 Basketball Champships Title

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The Triathlon Park in Astana came alive with energy and excitement as the inaugural VIBF 3×3 Basketball Championships delivered a thrilling showcase of athleticism, skill, and international spirit. Teams from around the world battled it out in a heated competition for the first-ever titles.

In the Men’s II1 bronze medal match, Portugal Red and Australia Gold ignited the court with fast-paced action and dazzling moves. Both squads kept the pressure high, but Portugal edged out Australia with a 21–17 victory to claim third place on the podium.

Portugal Red Vs Australia Gold fighting for the bronze medal at the VIBF World 3×3 Basketball Championship. Photo Credit: IDSport

The Men’s gold medal final saw Australia Green go head-to-head with France in a high-stakes contest. Australia emerged victorious, securing the top spot in the tournament.

In the Women’s division, the gold medal match was an all-Australian affair, with Australia Green dominating their compatriots from Australia Gold. The Green team’s sharp plays and relentless pressure resulted in a commanding 21–7 win, sealing the first-place finish.

Australia Green Vs Australia Gold fighting for Gold medal at VIBF World 3×3 Basketball Championship. Photo Credit: IDSport

The bronze medal clash in the women’s bracket featured Japan against France. Despite France showing moments of strong momentum, Japan’s precision and exceptional teamwork proved too much to handle. Japan clinched the bronze medal with a decisive 22–13 win, demonstrating the rising power of Asian teams in international 3×3 basketball.

“It was so exciting to see so many teams competing at our first VIBF 3×3 Basketball Championship. We want to see more teams come forward in both men’s and women’s to join our 3×3 Basketball Championship and support our re-inclusion movement,” said Barry Holman, Virtus General Secretary and VIBF Board member.

With passionate performances and historic wins, the VIBF 3×3 Championships concluded on a high note, setting a strong foundation for the future of inclusive basketball competition on the world stage.

Fierce Competitions For The VIBF World Basketball Championships Trophy Continues To Rise At Astana

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Day three at the VIBF World Basketball Championships in Astana was nothing short of spectacular. A day where elite performance met electric atmosphere — and where every game, every chant and every crowd cheer elevated the meaning of international competition.
The fierce France vs. Japan matchups set the tone — both men’s and women’s teams brought strategic finesse, athleticism and heart. The women’s game pushed into overtime, delivering high-drama moments that left fans breathless. The men’s game followed suit with blistering pace and defensive grit. Every pass was pressure. Every shot, a heartbeat.

II1 Men in action from Japan vs Kazakhstan (L) and Portugal vs France (R) match. Photo Credit: IDSport

The Australia vs. Venezuela was fast-paced and physical, it was a game of fierce rivalry and relentless hustle. Fans roared, chants and a short storm thundered across the park, and young spectators leaned in for every moment. The venue buzzed with energy — the kind you feel in your chest.
Then there was also the undeniable Spanish passion. Both España men’s and women’s teams turned heads with their fire and flair. While Team USA men faced off with a formidable Italian side in a game that tested every ounce of endurance. The Americans fought with intensity and pride, never backing down, pushing until the final buzzer. Their resilience and refusal to quit made this a match to remember — a testament to their unity and fighting spirit.

II1 Women in action from Spain vs Australia Green (L) and Australia Gold vs France (R) match. Photo Credit: IDSport

Meanwhile, Team Poland, with a women’s team for the first time, continued to elevate the bar of high performance.
“The level is unbelievable. It’s elite sport. It’s passion. It’s power,” said Richard Magnette (FRA) – VIBF Committee Member
And perhaps the most beautiful moment of all? The crowd.
They were everywhere — especially the children. Today saw the largest turnout yet from local families. Kids cheered, snapped photos, Athletes were signing autographs, taking selfies and sharing laughs. It was grassroots magic, where lifelong memories were made.
“It’s high-quality competition. Intense, eclectic and exciting and it’s all happening in Astana, one local spectator said
The feedback from the international federation and the public has been overwhelming: this is not just an inclusion event — it’s a world-class championship.
From buzzer-beaters to booming chants, it was a day when sport transcended the court and swept through the crowd.
In the Men’s Semifinals, Australia Green will go head-to-head with Portugal Red, while France battles Australia Gold for a place in the final. In the Women’s Semifinals, Australia Green will clash with Australia Gold, and Japan will take on France for a spot in the championship match.
The feedback has been unanimous: this is more than inclusion — this is excellence.
For full results, visit the VIBF website.

Research Reveals Key Differences in Race Pacing Among Elite Athletes with Intellectual Impairments and Down Syndrome

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A new study has provided fresh insights into how elite track athletes with intellectual impairments (II) and with/without additional significant impairment, such as Down syndrome (DS), pace themselves during competitive races. The research focused on performance during the 2023 Virtus Global Games, analysing pacing strategies in the 400-metre and 1,500-metre track events.

This study is an important first step to establish the credibility of the sport classification system for II2-athletes, leading to fairer competition. It also contributes to a broader understanding of performance patterns in Para sports, offering valuable insights that can inform inclusive coaching methods and event design.

The research was conducted by Pieter Boer from Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town, South Africa, Jan Burns MBE from Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, United Kingdom and Virtus Eligibility Head, United Kingdom, along with Debbie Van Biesen from KU Leuven, Belgium and Virtus Academy Manager.

Purpose and Approach

The goal of the study was to compare the pacing profiles of elite athletes with II (without DS) and those with DS. A total of 67 athletes participated in the final 400-m and 1,500-m events, competing in their respective classification groups.

  • 400-m event: Male and female athletes from both II and DS classes were included.
  • 1,500-m event: Only male athletes were assessed.

Race pacing was measured by segmenting race times and comparing running velocity across different phases of each event.

Key Findings

400-metre event:

  • Athletes with II (without DS) demonstrated a steeper decline in speed over the race, particularly compared to those with DS.

1,500-metre event:

  • Athletes with Down syndrome experienced a greater drop in running velocity over time, along with more pronounced fluctuations throughout the race.
  • In contrast, runners with II (without DS) showed more consistent pacing and better regulation of intensity over the full distance.

This research demonstrates that elite athletes with Down syndrome face distinct physiological and pacing challenges compared to their peers with other intellectual impairments. These differences underline the importance of tailored training, coaching, and classification systems that consider the unique needs and capabilities of different athlete groups.

By understanding these pacing profiles, coaches, sport scientists can better support the development of evidence-based training methods, as well as advocate for fair and appropriate competition opportunities.

As Virtus continues to promote high-performance sport for athletes with intellectual impairments—including those with Down syndrome—this research plays a pivotal role in advancing inclusive sport science.

Visit https://doi.org/10.1123/apaq.2024-0181 to read the full paper. A copy of the paper is also available upon request – simply send an email to Academy@virtus.sport

Explore the Virtus Research Hub and stay updated on new findings that drive better understanding, coaching, and performance support for athletes with intellectual impairments.

New Study Sheds Light on Coaching Practices for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism

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A new study, ‘Coaching Individuals With Intellectual Disability and/or Autism: Perspectives of Coaches and Physical Education Teachers in Belgium’, has been published recently in Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly. 

The research was carried out by six researchers, Dianne Kortekaas, Tine Van Damme en Debbie Van Biesen from KU Leuven, Belgium, Sean Healy from University of Limerick, Ireland, , Ingi Einarsson from Reykjavík University, Iceland, along with Jan Burns MBE, Virtus’ Head of Eligibility and Academic lead at Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent, GB

The study was conducted as a part of the EU-funded IDEAL 2.0 project: “Inclusive and equitable access to sport for people with intellectual disabilities and autism”.

The outcomes of this research have directly informed the development of two free online courses: Coaching Individuals with Intellectual Disability and/or Autism – Introductory Course and Coaching Elite Athletes with Intellectual Disability and/or Autism – Advanced Course.

The courses are now available on Virtus Academy.

“These courses aims to empower coaches and teachers with the practical tools and understanding needed to support individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism better”, said Debbie Van Biesen, Virtus Academy Manager, who was also one of the authors of the paper.

Using a qualitative research method,16 coaches and physical education teachers working across inclusive, integrated, and segregated sports settings were interviewed. The research was aimed at getting a better understanding of the real-world challenges and support needs faced by professionals in this essential and evolving field.

The findings from this study provided some vital insights into the day-to-day experiences of physical activity professionals when coaching or teaching individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) and/or autism.

Key Highlights from the Study

  • Coaching goes beyond sport

The study reveals that effective coaching for individuals with ID and/or autism demands much more than sport-specific instruction. Coaches often need to navigate behavioural, emotional, and communication challenges, requiring a broad and adaptive skill set.

  • There’s a clear call for tailored coach education

Participants consistently highlighted the gaps in traditional coach education, calling for more hands-on experience, peer learning, and training that is specific to disability. These tailored approaches are essential for building confidence and competence in inclusive coaching environments.

  • Inclusion is rewarding, but complex

While inclusive sports settings offer meaningful opportunities for social integration, they also present complexities. Coaches must adopt flexible, individualised approaches to accommodate a wide range of skills, behaviours, and group dynamics.

  • Collaboration makes all the difference

Strong partnerships with parents, schools, and other professionals are key. Such collaboration ensures continuity, builds trust, and supports more effective coaching outcomes across all environments.

Moving towards inclusive and informed coaching

In a related study to be published soon, the research team explores similar themes—but this time with a focus on coaches working at the elite level, including those in settings such as Virtus and Paralympic sports.

This important work marks another step forward in advancing inclusive, informed, and compassionate coaching practices in sport and physical activity.

The full research article can be accessed from https://doi.org/10.1123/apaq.2024-0206

A copy of the paper is also available upon request – simply email Academy@virtus.sport

2025 Virtus World Indoor Rowing Championship Is Coming To Torino, Italy

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Virtus – the International Sports Federation for athletes with an intellectual impairment – is proud to announce that the 5th Virtus World Indoor Rowing Championship will take place in Torino, Italy, from 13 to 17 October 2025. The event will be hosted at the Impianto PalaMirafiori, an indoor venue in the heart of the city.

The championship will be organised in collaboration with FISDIR (Federazione Italiana Sport Paralimpici degli Intellettivo Relazionali), Virtus’ national member organisation in Italy, and Canottieri Armida, one of Italy’s oldest and most respected rowing clubs.

This marks a significant return of Virtus rowing to Italy, a country with a rich tradition of inclusion and excellence in adaptive sports. FISDIR brings a wealth of experience, having hosted a range of major events including the Virtus Indoor and Outdoor Rowing Championships (2014, 2015), World Basketball Championships (2008, 2017), World Indoor Athletics (2016), and the prestigious 2011 Global Games, as well as numerous European-level competitions.

Founded in 1869, Canottieri Armida has played a pivotal role in shaping Italian rowing and promoting inclusive sport. Since 2001, the club has led national efforts to support rowing for people with disabilities, establishing one of Europe’s strongest inclusive rowing teams. It is also known for its long-running and inclusive event “Rowing For…”, which enters its 19th edition in 2025 under the banner “Rowing for Los Angeles – Paralympic Games 2028 Trophy”, to be held immediately after the Virtus Championship from October 17–19.

“We are thrilled to bring the 2025 Virtus World Indoor Rowing Championship to Italy. This is more than a competition — it’s a platform to elevate the sport and showcase the talent and determination of athletes with intellectual impairments,” said Francesco Ambrosio, President of FISDIR.

Torino, a city steeped in over 2,000 years of history, provides a fitting backdrop for this global championship. Originally founded by Celtic tribes and later developed as the Roman camp Julia Augusta Taurinorum around 28 BC, Torino is renowned for its blend of historic charm and modern innovation. It was the first capital of unified Italy and the host of the 2006 Winter Paralympic Games, reflecting its ongoing commitment to inclusive sport. From baroque palaces and world-class museums to its alpine setting and culinary traditions, the city welcomes the global Virtus community with open arms.

“We are all very excited about the organisation of the World Rowing Indoor Championships in Italy. Once again, we are counting on the support of FISDIR to organise the World Championships, from 13 to 17 October in Turin,” said Nuno Santa Rita, Virtus Rowing Director. 

“We are committed to providing an unforgettable experience for all involved, with a dedicated team and the support of several public and private partners who believe in the transformative power of inclusive sport. See you all in Turin”, he further added.

The event will be proudly supported by the Italian Rowing Federation and the Italian Paralympic Committee, reinforcing Italy’s dedication to inclusive excellence in sport.

Information pack and more details will follow soon.

Virtus Welcomes Alexander Hillhouse as Anti-Doping Ambassador

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Virtus – the International Sports Federation for Athletes with an Intellectual Impairment – is excited to welcome Alexander Hillhouse as its Anti-Doping Ambassador. Hillhouse is the first-ever anti-doping ambassador appointed by Virtus.

This milestone reinforces Virtus’ deep commitment to protecting the integrity of sport through education, awareness, and advocacy for clean competition.

Hillhouse, a Paralympic swimmer with an intellectual impairment from Denmark, is a rising star in the international para-sport community. Hillhouse received his Virtus eligibility in 2020 and has since become a symbol of excellence and integrity in the pool – winning two gold, three silver, and two bronze medals at the 2023 Virtus Global Games. Alexander made headlines by breaking the Paralympic record in the S14 100m Butterfly at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Hillhouse was awarded with the ‘Pressalit Para-athlete of the year 2024’ for his splendid performance at Paris 2024. This is the second time in a row that Alexander had received the award.

Hillhouse posing with his fellow medalists William Ellard and Gabriel Bandeira at S14 100m Butterfly at Paris 2024 (left) and receiving the ‘Pressalit Para-athlete of the year 2024’ award (right). Photo Credit: Paralympics GB and Paralympic Committee of Denmark.

Hillhouse has long been a passionate advocate for clean sport in Denmark. Ahead of the Paris 2024 Games, he actively collaborated with his National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) to develop educational content and raise awareness around anti-doping.

“It is so important to compete without using any substances to boost performance. Doping can damage your health and destroy your career. I urge all athletes, especially those with an intellectual impairment, to play clean. Champions are remembered for their dedication, not shortcuts,” said Hillhouse

In his new ambassadorial role, Alexander will work alongside Virtus to amplify the impact of the 2025 Anti-Doping Awareness Program, which launched on 19 May as a continuation of the movement initiated on ‘Play True Day’ in April 2024. The program is run in partnership with IBSA and World Ability Sport, delivering accessible anti-doping education to athletes, youth, coaches, and support staff across the globe.

With Hillhouse’s leadership, Virtus aims to further strengthen its education efforts and inspire the next generation of athletes to compete with pride, fairness, and respect.

“With Alexander on board, we are not just promoting clean sport—we are empowering role models who lead by example. He represents everything this movement stands for: excellence, integrity, and inclusion,” said Marc Truffaut, Virtus President.

Virtus looks forward to working with Hillhouse to expand the reach of anti-doping awareness and build a global culture where true champions play clean.

Eligibility Manager (part-time)

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Virtus is creating an exciting new part-time post within the staff team for an Eligibility Manager.

The post holder manage the Virtus athlete eligibility process on a day-to-day basis liaising with the Head of Eligibility and Eligibility Committee to ensure a robust, efficient and effective service for sport worldwide.

Candidates should be experienced in the diagnosis of intellectual impairment, having been educated in  or employed in a psychological services role.

For full details, please download the full information pack.

Applications should be uploaded here no later than 8th June 2025.

 

Virtus Opens Nominations for the 6th Virtus Awards

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Virtus, the International Sports Federation for Athletes with an Intellectual Impairment, is thrilled to open nominations for the 6th Virtus Awards.

Virtus Awards is our way of honouring the remarkable individuals who embody the very best of our movement. Whether it’s the unstoppable drive of an athlete, the selfless commitment of a volunteer, or the enduring impact of a coach or team, these awards celebrate those who have left a lasting imprint on the Virtus family.

In every arena where sport is played, stories of resilience, triumph, and quiet dedication unfold. At Virtus, we’ve long believed that the world of sport for athletes with an intellectual impairment is not just about competition—it’s about courage, commitment, and community. It’s about breaking boundaries and redefining what excellence looks like.

The Virtus Awards are not just accolades. They are acknowledgements of the hard work often done out of the spotlight. They are a moment to express gratitude and to make their efforts towards Virtus’ mission visible.

Nominations are open across five categories:

  • Best Male Athlete
  • Best Female Athlete
  • Best Team
  • Unsung Hero – Honouring volunteers whose contributions often go unseen, but never unfelt
  • Virtus Hall of Fame – Celebrating a lifetime of dedication to sport for athletes with an intellectual impairment

Criteria for nominations:

  • For athlete and team categories, achievements must fall between 1st April 2023 and 31st March 2025
  • All nominees for the athlete and team categories must appear on the Virtus Master List
  • Hall of Fame nominees should demonstrate exceptional and long-term commitment to advancing sport for athletes with intellectual impairments.
  • Nominations must be submitted by the Virtus member organisation

Nominations are open until August 15, 2025 and can be submitted online here.

A panel appointed by the Virtus Governing Board will review all submissions and select the awardees.

The prestigious awards will be presented at the Virtus General Assembly weekend in Cairo, Egypt, in November 2025.

Virtus invites its global community—athletes, coaches, supporters, member organisations, and the general public—to submit nominations and help honour the stories that define the spirit of inclusion and excellence.

Nominate today. Let their story be heard.