Federation University

United Across The Regions

Spread across three regional campuses, Federation University has built a UBL program where distance has become one of its greatest strengths.

Bringing together student-athletes from Ballarat, Berwick and Gippsland, some separated by up to four hours, the Fed Falcons have created a close-knit culture built on connection, belonging and community.

Despite the challenges of a regional footprint, the Falcons have remained consistently competitive while fostering strong relationships across the squad. Strong connections with local basketball associations, schools and the broader community have also helped shape a program that extends well beyond the university.

More than results, the program is proud of the sense of belonging it has created. In fact, the strength of the UBL program has influenced some students to choose Federation University, recognising the opportunity to represent the Falcons while pursuing their studies.

“We are proud of how competitive our program has been over the seasons, and the strength of the connections among our players from across our campuses.”

The Fed Falcons believe their greatest strength lies in the way they compete together as one team.

Built around a strong team system, the Falcons rely on trust, communication and collective effort, creating an environment where every player has a role to play. While teamwork sits at the heart of the program, the squad also boasts talented individuals capable of producing game-changing moments when it matters most.

That team-first mentality extends beyond the final whistle, with players encouraged to contribute to a culture built on connection, camaraderie and belonging both on and off the court.

“Our togetherness and connection shows on the floor.”

Tyler Kennedy returns for his second season as head coach in 2026 after leading the Fed Falcons in 2025.

Having played and coached across the USA, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Panama, the Dominican Republic and the Philippines, Kennedy brings extensive international experience, innovative thinking and a holistic approach to athlete development.

He brings elite ball knowledge and an innovative approach, and the ability to communicate ideas and concepts in a variety of ways to connect with the players.

His focus extends beyond basketball, helping student-athletes grow both on and off the court.

The Falcons are excited to see how they fly in 2026 under Tyler’s leadership.

Nate Raymond

An exciting playmaker who consistently brings out the best in his teammates, Raymond averaged 5.71 assists per game in 2025 to finish among the league’s top three, highlighting his ability to make the right play at the right time.

Luke Logan

After equal-leading the UBL for three-pointers made in 2025 at the competition’s best shooting percentage among the leaders, Logan has put in a mountain of work over the off-season and is ready to reach new heights in 2026.

Mille Cracknell

Following an impressive 2025 campaign, Cracknell will be looking to build on her strong performances and show the league what she is capable of this season.

Zoe Rakogiannis

After missing the 2025 season through injury, Rakogiannis returns eager to make her mark and help drive the Falcons in 2026.

La Trobe University

For the men’s team, a rematch with La Trobe looms as one of the highlights after a thrilling one-point victory in 2025.

Matt McAuliffe’s go-ahead three-pointer with five seconds remaining, followed by Heath McPherson’s game-saving block, sealed a memorable win and has set the stage for another fiercely contested encounter.

University of the Sunshine Coast

The women’s team will also have redemption on its mind when it takes on UniSC.

After falling by a single point in a dramatic contest featuring five lead changes in the final 90 seconds last season, the Falcons are eager to turn the result around in 2026.

Adelaide University

Off the court, one of the season’s most anticipated moments will be the return of AU Waatu and former Federation University staff member Jason Slater to Mt Helen.

Slater played an instrumental role in establishing the Falcons’ UBL program, and his return will be a special occasion for the university and the wider Falcons community.

The Federation University UBL experience extends well beyond basketball.

At the heart of the program is “The Kettle” – the collective noun for a group of falcons – which has become a symbol of the connection, belonging and support shared across the team.

One of the program’s most valued traditions is “put ups”, where at the end of a game, or training session, players look someone in the eyes and recognise qualities they saw in that person throughout game, training session and/or whilst travelling.

This reinforces the trust, respect and camaraderie that define the Falcons.

That same team-first philosophy extends beyond the court through valuable work-integrated learning opportunities.

Through placements and the University’s Co-op Program, students gain hands-on experience in roles including sport program support, court announcing, performance analysis, and strength and conditioning and physiotherapy support.

Game days at the Federation University Sport & Recreation Centre bring together students, staff and the wider regional community, with strong support from local basketball associations and neighbouring schools creating an atmosphere that reflects the pride behind the Falcons.

From Ballarat to Berwick and Gippsland, the Fed Falcons continue to prove that distance is no barrier to building a team united by connection, community and shared purpose.

University: Federation University

2025 Result: Men’s 12th Place | Women’s 10th Place

Claim to Fame: Building one of the UBL’s most connected programs across regional Victoria

Style of Play: Connected, team-first basketball

Rival to Watch: La Trobe University & UniSC

Players to Watch: Nate Raymond, Luke Logan, Mille Cracknell, Zoe Rakogiannis

2026 Goal: To continue building a united program while competing at the highest level