Ingles highlights need for JackJumpers & St Lukes sensory game changer

The intensity of JackJumpers home games is well known throughout the Australian sporting landscape with the Ant Army widely touted as one of the most passionate and loudest crowds in Australian sport in the NBL. 

But for some fans living with sensory challenges, the sounds, lights and intensity of the experience has been a barrier too big to bear in previous seasons. 

In an effort to create a more inclusive game day environment, the JackJumpers teamed up with not-for-profit health insurer St Lukes in the 2025/26 season to supply sensory packs to those with challenges, including headphones, a blanket, fidget spinners and tinted glasses. 

On average, MyState Bank Arena issued 8 St Lukes sensory packs at each JackJumpers home game in the 2025/26 NBL Season. 

“The St Lukes sensory packs were quite sought after and probably exceeded amount of take up we anticipated in the first season since launch” Tasmania JackJumpers CEO, Christine Finnegan said. 

“While most fans, and of course out our players, love having the Arena as loud as possible, we understand it can be challenging for others. 

“The packs are an amazing initiative. We’re really proud to create a more inclusive environment with the help of St Lukes” Finnegan said. 

The importance of sensory tools was recently highlighted by the plight of Jacob Ingles, the son of Australian NBA star and Timberwolves Centre Joe Ingles. Jacob lives with autism and has been unable to attend games for much of his father’s decorated career. 

Timberwolves Coach Chris Finch has been widely praised for starting Ingles, despite not being a regular member of the starting 5, to ensure Jacob could see his Dad play live for the first time. 

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the game, regardless of challenges they may have. I think a lot of families will resonate with the challenges that the Ingles family endure, whether it be autism or something else. I think it was a lovely representation of the many causes that are bigger than the game and above all, to be kind. 

“That’s one of the amazing things about sport, it’s a sense of escapism from other issues and a place where everyone belongs, so we’re pleased to be able to provide these small additional tools to make the experience a little less overwhelming” Finnegan said. 

Packs are available from the MyState Bank Arena info desk prior to each event at the venue. ID is required to borrow a pack, to be returned at the end of the game. They are available for both adults and children, and a St Lukes membership nor a medical diagnosis is not required.