A Canberra hotel has partnered with the University of Canberra Capitals ahead of the upcoming WNBL season, supporting the team’s travel, preparation and recovery while strengthening links between sport and the city’s visitor economy.
Vibe Hotel Canberra will provide a base for the UC Capitals throughout the national competition, with its location near the city’s airport intended to simplify travel for players and staff heading to and from away games.
The partnership also aims to support the visibility of women’s basketball in the capital and encourage travelling supporters to experience Canberra during the season.
Shahnaz Bakhshay, TFE Hotels Global Sales Officer, said the partnership reflected the hotel’s connection with the local community and the Capitals’ long standing role in Canberra sport.
“The Capitals are central to Canberra sport. They’ve built a record nine championships and a pipeline of talent that keeps feeding the top level,” Ms Bakhshay said.
Founded in 1984, the UC Capitals are the most successful team in WNBL history with nine championship titles and maintain close links with grassroots basketball across the Canberra region.
Christy Collier-Hill, UC Capitals Executive General Manager, said the partnership would provide practical support across a season in which athletes spend significant time travelling.
“Having a partner who genuinely understands high-performance environments and the importance of comfort and preparation is invaluable,” Ms Collier-Hill said.
The Capitals’ 2026–27 squad includes WNBA prospect Nyadiew Puoch, Olympian Amy Atwell, New Zealand Tall Ferns Charlotte Whittaker and Sharne Robati, along with Isabel Palmer and Manuela Puoch.
Home games will be played at AIS Arena, with the regular WNBL season beginning in October.
