The old tops were over 20 years old and like some of the players, were `very tired'.

Thanks to the sponsorship of two leading Ararat businesses, the tops - along with some new basketballs - have been a welcome addition to inspire a better standard of basketball.

The Ararat RSL is a proud sponsor of one team, with new manager Maria Whitford generously offering to procure the tops, to assist the local teams in looking more professional.

The other team is sponsored by Spalding McCutcheon, who assist the competition by attracting new players, and motivating the current ones.

A social match is played each Tuesday night at 7.30pm at the Ararat YMCA.

The YMCA has been a great support to the competition, and thanks must go to the centre manager, Janeen Williamson, for her assistance in ordering and printing the new apparel.

The Over 30s competition is continuing to grow.

If anyone is interested in a run, new players are welcome to come down to the YMCA for a game, and for the occasional social drink at the RSL.

A challenge has been put out to long-time organiser, Colin Edwards - with the acquisition of new XXL tops, the players are ready for the `big fella's' long-awaited return.