AFL SportsReady launches new foundation to aid young people in need
AFL SportsReady has officially launched their new charity, The Ready Foundation with a breakfast event at Etihad Stadium.
The Ready Foundation was established to remove barriers to employment and education experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and other disadvantaged young people.
The launch included guest speakers Mr Gillon McLachlan, CEO of the Australian Football League, The Hon. Steve Bracks AC AFL SportsReady’s Chair, participants of AFL SportsReady program Lily Graham and Ahmad Suleiman also shared their stories of overcoming challenges and thanked AFL SportsReady for giving them the opportunity to succeed in life.
To finish a footy review panel took place with Kevin Sheedy, AFL SportsReady Co-founder and AFL legend, Dustin Martin, Richmond Football Club midfielder, Lindsay Thomas, North Melbourne Football Club forward, Tyson Goldsack, Collingwood Football Club defender, Aaron Davey, Melbourne Football Club legend and Ellyse Gamble, former trainee and AFLW Western Bulldogs superstar.
Mr Bracks opened the event with a moving speech commending the good work by the organisation. “Our commitment to our history and founding partners is as strong as ever and our impact continues to grow for the thousands of young people, who through the foresight and support of our founders, benefit to this day with a vision that provides opportunities for people to start their career with confidence and skills.”
“It does give me great pleasure to launch the next chapter of that commitment,” he added.
Mr McLachlan also gave praise to AFL SportsReady’s achievements and the new foundation.
“It has been a great pathway for over 2500 people to get their start in the AFL industry as trainees. Since its inception the AFL has invested close to $10 million in AFL SportsReady.”
“AFL SportsReady is a reputable and trustworthy organisation. They are committed to making a difference and their track record of supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people is outstanding,” said Mr McLachlan.
The launch coincided with National Reconciliation Week, to further emphasise the message of unity and a shared vision. AFL SportsReady Executive Manager of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander programs Jade Colgan delivered a compelling speech on the challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and the hope the new foundation will offer them.
“The Ready Foundation will be a tool that can help take care of some of the broader factors we know play a part in a young person being able to step forward, up and into an opportunity,” Mrs Colgan said.
Mr Sheedy added, “We need to grow the opportunities for these brilliant and talented young people. People who are waiting to be given a chance. The Ready foundation is how we can do this”.
AFL SportsReady and The Ready Foundation looks forward to creating new opportunities for young people in need and seeing them improve in work, education and life.
To donate to The Ready Foundation please click here or for more information contact Jade Colgan on [email protected] or 0447 376 817.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Fiona Hawes
National Marketing and Communications Manager
AFL SportsReady
E: [email protected]
M: 0433 903 761
W: aflsportsready.com.au