An exciting partnership formed early in 2017 between the Cronulla Sharks and Gig Buddies, an initiative aimed at empowering people with disability and preventing associated mental health and isolation issues, received some outstanding media coverage last week on the Channel 9 Footy Show.
Footy Show presenter Erin Molan and her production team visited a Sharks training session recently to raise awareness for the outstanding cause.
Molan spoke with Matthew Collins, Community Engagement Coordinator for ACL Disability Services and Gig Buddies Sydney, several clients, Sharks ambassador for Sharks Buddies Chris Heighington, club Captain Paul Gallen and NRL coach Shane Flanagan.
The Footy Show provided an excellent insight into Sharks Buddies and the work the club does in the community in an entertaining special presentation.
In case you missed it, click on the above video to watch the Footy show segment.
Gig Buddies pair up people with disability with volunteers to attend gigs, shows and various events. The initiative currently has 150 registered clients and 325 volunteers.
Sharks Buddies is an add on to Gig Buddies which sees clients and volunteers cheer on the Sharks in games played at Southern Cross Group Stadium. The aim of the program, which is the first of its kind, empowers people with disability through rugby league.
The partnership between the Sharks and Gig Buddies will see them work together for a minimum of three NRL Telstra Premiership seasons.
