It was certainly unique, with the Sharks partnering up with Flow Athletic in holding a fundraising event with a difference last night in support of injured former Shark Nathan Stapleton.
More than 200 were there in person, in addition to many who joined in on-line, for ‘Flow After Dark’, a 60-minute all-level yoga class conducted on field at PointsBet Stadium by top instructor Kate Kendall.
On a night where the lights were out but with the stage and field illuminated by a full moon, the participants went through the yoga routine equipped with their Silent Sounds Disco headphones while moving to the beats of Sydney DJ James Mack.
In attendance were yoga regulars, as well as Sharks fans looking to get behind a former hero now struggling after suffering the tragic spinal injury while playing rugby in regional NSW, with around $24,000 raised on the night.
Nicho Hynes was another member of the crowd, the Sharks star stretching up and adding the yoga session to his preparations ahead of his teams Finals Series match against the Cowboys on Saturday.
Sharks CEO Dino Mezzatesta was at PointsBet last night and was thrilled with the response to this special event in support of one of our own.
“It was a beautiful night, the glow of the headphones and full moon lit up the field and we are very thankful to those who took part. Nathan and his family have a long journey ahead of them and any support we can provide will certainly be appreciated and put to good use.
“Thanks also to Ben Lucas and Flow Athletic, who alongside our staff here at the Sharks took on the responsibilities of planning and promoting the event, and to Kate, widely known as one of Australia’s leading instructors, who put on an outstanding yoga session,” Mezzatesta added.
Lucas from Flow Athletic also had numerous people and organisations to thank for their help in executing what turned out to be an incredible event.
“Thanks to Highland Property, Feros Group and to Shore Hire for your incredible donations, to Matt Harrison from AFS for being on hand in case there was a need for First Aid and to Craig Winstanley from CWE Audiovisual for his expertise. And not forgetting Fodbods for your delicious treats,” Lucas said.
“Dancetime Hire also supplied the stage at a significantly discounted rate, TLA the big screen and camera operator free of charge, Coca Cola provided Mount Franklin bottled water for the participants, with BSC offering product samples. Thanks to all for your contribution on the night,” Lucas added.
All funds raised from the event will go towards the continued medical costs and future rehabilitation expenses for Stapleton, who recently became a father for a second time, with Nathan’s wife Kate giving birth to a baby boy, a brother to Harry who is almost 2.
Stapleton played 61 NRL games from 2009-2014 at the Sharks. He is now a quadriplegic as a result of the on-field incident, needs a ventilator to breathe and remains in intensive care.
While more initiatives will be planned in support of Stapleton, those who were unable to attend Flow After Dark last night can contribute to the cause by visiting the dedicated trust fund page set up on Stapleton’s behalf.
To make a donation go to:
Men of League Foundation Specific Cause Trust Account
BSB: 032-000
Account: 389681.
