The Sharks held their fourth Mega Jaws Clinic for 2018 and their second event open and free event for the public to attend, with some footy fun had by all.
Hosted by Sharks Have Heart: Inclusivity Program Co-ordinator Jason Stanton, Mega Jaws offers a free clinic for those with additional needs who don't participate in mainstream clinics or sport.
The 15 participants, who range in abilities and are challenged by epilepsy, ADHD, autism, sensory processing disorder or down syndrome, enjoyed a range of activities on the main field at Southern Cross Group Stadium and were treated to a tour of the dressing rooms.
They were greeted and welcomed by Sharks mascot Reefy who also played an active role throughout the event.
Parents, carers and family members also attended and were invited to join in the fun.
Mega Jaws is led by Stanton who is also the co-founder of Skillz4me, another extremely significant, Sharks supported program which caters for children on the autism spectrum.
Occupational Therapist Victoria Reed, from OT4me, observed the program on the day while supporting the families in attendance.
"Mega Jaws was a great success," Ms Reed began. "It provided lots of encouragement and praise for the children, adapted to their individual needs and created opportunities for social engagement with the team huddle and other activities.
"The staff to child ratio was good and I was impressed that while the clinic ran with a set structure, there was still plenty of flexibility. And Reefy played his part as well in engaging with all the children."
One of the pillars of Sharks Have Heart is inclusivity and as a club the Sharks believe people of all abilities deserve the chance to take part in sport with friends and their family.
Sharks fund and manage the Mega Jaws program, with this and other significant Sharks Have Heart programs not possible without the support of Platinum Partner Capital Bluestone.
