The Gold Coast SUNS players have Rizen’ to the occasion.
The playing group today have thrown their support behind the club’s inaugural Round to RizeUp, kickstarting the fundraising drive by donating $5000 to the cause as part of the AFL Cares program.
As part of the program all players donate $50 from each match fee they receive. That money is then pooled to donate to a charity of their choice.
The SUNS playing group reaffirmed their commitment to educate and create awareness around the prevention of Domestic and Family Violence by choosing to donate to RizeUp Austraila.
Jack Bowes, one of the clubs AFLPA representatives, presented the cheque to RizeUp patron and domestic violence survivor, Simone O’Brien.
“On behalf of the entire playing group, we’d like to present this cheque to RizeUp to help the work you do in creating awareness and educating the community against domestic and family violence,” Bowes said.
“Domestic and family violence is an issue throughout the country but in recent times has hit close to home with the tragic events involving Kelly Wilkinson and Lordy Ramadan.”
“As a playing group, we’ve endeavoured to educate ourselves on the impacts of domestic and family violence and learn what we can do to help.”
“And a group of players have also been out to lend a hand to RizeUp and set up a home, for a family in need, something we’ll continue to do throughout the year.”
Bowes looked to highlight the importance of the role they can play throughout the Gold Coast community.
“Hopefully our support and the impact we as AFL players within the community can have, will help to keep the spotlight on creating a better future for families affected.”
In conjunction with the club’s Major Charity Partner RizeUp, the Gold Coast SUNS aim to help create awareness and better educate the community around the prevention of domestic and family violence.
Members and Fans attending the Round 8 Toyota AFL Premiership Match against St Kilda at Metricon Stadium, will be given the opportunity to donate to help families affected by domestic and family violence.
As individuals, as a team and as a club, we can:
- Look after our friends and family, our neighbours and colleagues
- Ask if they’re okay?
- Hold our friends and family accountable for their attitudes and behaviours
- Understand the drivers to violence against women and children
If you or anyone you know is affected by domestic or family violence contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or if you are in immediate danger call 000.
Donations can be made whilst purchasing tickets to the game via Ticketek, at any time via the RizeUp website or on match day at Metricon Stadium.
