Tipping off the 2025/26 awards season, Caledonia Gladiator Mathilde Domenger has won the first honour of the post-season as he scooped the Molten Community Champion Award for her tireless work away from Super League Basketball action.
Mathilde Domenger has been recognised for her exceptional commitment to community engagement, consistently going far beyond expectations. A leading presence within the Gladiators programme, she dedicates her time multiple times each week to working with young people, schools, fans, and partners. Her impact is driven by genuine care and authenticity, building meaningful one-to-one connections that help young athletes grow not only in their basketball ability, but in confidence, behaviour, and personal development.
Domenger also plays a key role in the club’s school roadshows, delivering inspiring sessions with honesty and humility, while connecting with a wide range of audiences. Beyond this, she actively supports partner engagement and regularly spends her own time with fans, strengthening the sense of community around the club. Much of her contribution happens without recognition, reflecting her humility and integrity.
Reflecting on her win, Domenger said:
“Receiving this award truly means a lot to me. For me, basketball is not just a sport. It’s about life moments. Shared smiles, sometimes tougher emotions too, but always experienced together. That’s what gives everything its meaning. Sport, above all, is about sharing. It’s about loving the same thing as others, building connections, and most importantly, making people feel seen, valued, and appreciated. What I give to others, I also receive through them, and I always try to give even more.
“I am also very grateful to all the people who support us every day. Their presence, their energy, and their trust make what we do possible. I’ve truly loved sharing and meeting so many people. For me, it’s a way to express my gratitude: giving back, being genuinely committed, and fully embracing every moment. Because in the end, it’s not only what happens on the court that we remember, but also all the moments we create outside of it, with people, through sharing.
“I have truly felt in the right place in everything I’ve done this year, and I’m lucky to be part of a club that values these human qualities. I truly believe a club works best when everyone moves forward together, with respect, connection, and a sense of sharing. Taking the time to get to know each other, to live moments and experiences together, is essential.
“I sincerely thank the club and all the people I’ve had the chance to meet. They help me grow not only as a player, but also as a woman. It’s a club I deeply respect and one I truly love giving back to.”
Caledonia Gladiators Head of Pro Teams and Community Lisa Palombo added:
“We are delighted that Mathilde has been named Molten Community Champion for the 2025/26 season. She consistently demonstrates the impact players can have within their community and is a true role model for others. The way she has represented Caledonia Gladiators Basketball Club as a whole has been exceptional.”