The idea that something as simple as a pair of boots can mean the difference between a child being able to play their sport, or not, is incredible. It is hard to imagine that currently, kids could be missing opportunities because they do not have the right equipment. The thought of it breaks our hearts, which is why we are trying to do something to help kids in East Arnhem Land enjoy the benefits of a love of sport and play.
When you know how crucial football boots are to a child, being able to help is a blessing. Since our managing director Brad Nagle and his family came back from East Arnhem Land, we decided to act by running a program that will collect second-hand sports equipment for kids in the community; soccer boots, jerseys, training equipment, soccer balls etc.
The O’Connor Knights Soccer Club is an amazing not-for-profit community club run by volunteers, who were enthusiastic about helping us get as many pairs of boots as possible up to the kids. Working together, we spread the word about what we were doing and encouraged anyone who might have extra sports equipment sitting around their place to donate it.
We have been pleasantly surprised by the support of the O’Connor Knights Soccer Club and the wider A.C.T community. With our vision of providing kids in need with soccer boots, we sent out a call to the soccer community, asking for donations and received many pairs that were in great shape. This program will continue for a few more weeks before sending the collection to East Arnhem Land. The generosity has been overwhelming and we have a number of people who have either pledged their soccer boots or already donated. This is excellent news for the kids.
This initiative will hopefully encourage more kids in East Arnhem Land to be active and improve their social lives, as well as their health and academics. It is wonderful to know that there are people out there who care about kids in our community. This experience has been extremely rewarding as it has opened our eyes to how much good there is in this world.
We hope that together we can make a significant difference in the lives of these kids so they can finally play the game they love without having to worry about whether they will be able to run around freely on the field.
A drop-off box is in the foyer of the Australian Croatian Club, 68 McCaughey St, Turner.
Thank you in advance for your support of this project. Thank you to those of you who have already donated.
