Multiculturalism at the Heart of the Perth Wildcats
The Perth Wildcats, a powerhouse in Australian basketball, are not just known for their on-court success but also for their deep commitment to diversity and inclusion. Behind the scenes, the club’s staff reflects a rich tapestry of cultures, each bringing unique perspectives that shape the Wildcats’ identity. As the team prepares for its inaugural Multicultural Game, the focus is on celebrating the global heritage that defines the organization.
COO Danny Mills: A Vision for Inclusivity
Wildcats COO and GM of Basketball Operations, Danny Mills, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and honoring the diverse backgrounds of both players and staff. “We’ve got players and staff from all over the world, born in different places or raised in different countries, and it’s important that we recognize that,” Mills says. This philosophy is the driving force behind the club’s Multicultural Game, an initiative that extends the Wildcats’ multicultural ethos beyond the playing group.
The Global Game of Basketball
In an era where basketball is a truly global sport, Mills believes that diversity is not just a strength but a necessity. “You see so many people from around the world come to Perth for one common cause—trying to win a championship with the Perth Wildcats, but also creating impact in the community,” he explains. This shared mission fosters a sense of unity and purpose that resonates throughout the organization.
Sports Scientist Luciana Perez: Argentine Roots
Among the Wildcats’ staff, Sports Scientist Luciana Perez stands out for her rich cultural background. Born and raised in Argentina, Perez brings a unique perspective shaped by a country known for its passion for sports. “Argentina is a sports-crazy country,” she says, noting the strong influence of European cultures, particularly Spanish and Italian. “Family and friends are everything—it’s my home and my identity.”
Basketball in Argentina
Basketball holds a special place in Argentine culture, with the country achieving international acclaim, including a gold medal at the Olympics. “Our most famous player is Manu Ginóbili,” Perez notes. “Basketball has always been big.” Her role at the Wildcats allows her to merge her love for sports with her expertise in sports science, contributing to the team’s performance both clinically and through research.
Assistant Coach Aaron Young: A Global Upbringing
Assistant Coach Aaron Young’s journey to Perth is a testament to the power of diverse experiences. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, Young’s childhood took him to Kuwait at the age of six, where he lived for six years before moving to Auckland, New Zealand, where he spent the next two decades. “It was an unbelievable experience as a kid,” he recalls. “Learning a different culture and how life was run there—it was a really unique grounding.”
Traditions and Team Culture
Culture plays a significant role in Young’s personal life, particularly through family traditions like Sunday feasts. “Good food, good people, everyone together—that connection matters,” he says. This emphasis on community and tradition translates into his coaching philosophy, where building strong relationships and understanding diverse perspectives are key to team cohesion.
Head of Commercial Sam Fotu: Representation Matters
Sam Fotu, the Wildcats’ Head of Commercial, brings a Polynesian heritage that adds another layer to the club’s multicultural fabric. Born in Auckland to Tongan parents, Fotu grew up in a household where sport was an integral part of daily life. “Traditionally, rugby is the main pathway for Polynesians,” he notes. “When I started playing basketball, there weren’t many people from Tongan or Samoan backgrounds.”
Breaking Barriers in Basketball
That landscape has changed significantly, and Fotu is passionate about showing the next generation that basketball is a viable pathway. “Now you see so many islanders picking up basketball and feeling comfortable doing it,” he says. “For my kids and family, it shows there are other pathways.” As a leader in the Wildcats’ front office, Fotu is keen to demonstrate that there are multiple roles in sport beyond the athlete pathway, encouraging diverse career opportunities.
Making Players Feel at Home
Danny Mills reflects on how these lived experiences across the staff group reinforce the importance of initiatives like the Multicultural Game and cultural traditions throughout the season. “We still do Thanksgiving and put these things on throughout the year,” he says. “It gives players a slice of home.” For players who spend long periods away from family, these moments are deeply meaningful, fostering a sense of belonging and team unity.
A Tapestry of Cultures
Mills believes that recognizing and celebrating these cultural moments strengthens the Wildcats’ organizational culture. “We invite staff into those settings so they can understand what it means for players who are here for six or seven months,” he explains. “It’s a way of saying, we value you and where you come from.” Ultimately, Mills sees this diversity as a unifying force. “When you bring all of that together, it’s the best of different worlds. It helps players feel at home, helps staff understand each other, and strengthens the culture of the organization.”
Looking Ahead: The Inaugural Multicultural Game
As the Wildcats prepare to host their inaugural Multicultural Game, the focus is on showcasing the rich cultural heritage that defines the club. This event is not just a celebration of diversity but a testament to the Wildcats’ commitment to being a global team that thrives on inclusivity. With staff and players from around the world, the Wildcats are setting a benchmark for how sports organizations can embrace multiculturalism and use it to drive success both on and off the court.
