Horsham's Rebecca McIntyre won the Basketball Victoria Country award for Contribution to Diversity and Inclusion.

McIntyre was recognised for her work in creating pathways for women and Indigenous athletes to play basketball.

She has helped empower women with the Women in Sport Good Governance program, and recently won a gold medal as the assistant coach of the Australian Indigenous Basketball team.

McIntyre said it was rewarding to be recognised for her efforts in creating equal opportunities.

"Obviously you don't do what you do for recognition, but if there is a time you can put a spotlight on inclusion and diversity, it is worthwhile," McIntyre said.

"Equal opportunity for everyone is something that I deeply believe in."

McIntyre's father Gary Bird was also in attendance, making the awards ceremony even more meaningful.

Mr Bird presented the male equivalent of the diversity and inclusion award, which is named after him and recognises his work in creating opportunities for people with disability.

"It was pretty special for him to be there... to see me win that and be proud," McIntyre said.

"To see that I learned from my parents that it's not about what you achieve, it's about what you give back to the community.

"It's nice to be able to continue on his legacy."

McIntyre said the award was in part owed to the Horsham Basketball Association.

"The recognition is rewarding, but this is more a collective award - especially for Horsham basketball," she said. "We have a lot of great people on the board who agree with what I believe in and have helped me along the way.

"It puts that spotlight out there for inclusion, and hopefully other people and associations can learn from what we're doing."

The Horsham under-12 boys squad also won the inaugural Fair Play Award at the state Country Championships, further displaying the terrific reputation the association has across the state.

Ahead of 73 other teams, Horsham won a $1000 prize for their sportsmanship, behaviour of their team staff and creating an overall positive environment.

Team coach Tony Sleep said it was a rewarding honour.

"We're obviously there for the basketball, but what we're trying to do is instill some values in our young men for them to carry forward into their lives," Sleep said.

"Just some of the comments from coaches and other volunteers about how the boys conducted themselves, on and off the court, was really pleasing to hear."