TWENTY-FIVE young men from across Queensland enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime experience on Monday, when they spent the afternoon with the Kangaroos: participating in team building activities, learning more about their idols, and simply talking.
The event was thanks to a collaboration with the Kangaroos, PCYC Queensland and Queensland Police Service (QPS), designed to foster mentorship, build relationships and inspire. The boys were selected through their involvement with PCYC’s youth development programs and for their potential as young leaders.
Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga said this was an important event for the team as well as the young men.
“This sort of thing is really important for us, because these young fans are what it’s all about,” he said.
“The players know who they represent – and that’s these boys and their communities. It’s a privilege to spend time with impressive young people like this and see what the Kangaroos jersey really means to them.
“The team had a great time with the kids and gained as much as they gave. One of the most powerful things about sport is the connections it creates—that’s what it’s all about.”
The 25 young people were selected from five PCYCs across the state – Bundaberg, Sunshine Coast, Deception Bay, Palm Island and Rockhampton – due to their commitment to their communities and strength of character. They were accompanied by their club’s Youth and Community Program Manager, QPS officers who run PCYC’s youth development programs.
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said all of the young people had been recognised for their involvement in their communities, and being role models to younger children.
“They, like all young men, really benefit from having meaningful interactions with positive role models, and spending time with footy legends they’ve only seen before on TV is something they will always remember,” he said.
“We are really grateful to the Kangaroos for today, and for the positive impact they will have on these young people.
“Through all of our programs, we know the lasting benefits of this kind of mentoring and skill building – learning about discipline, dedication and hard work can broaden perspectives and give them a sense of possibility that they will take home with them.”
QPS Community Safety Group Superintendent Rob Fleischer said QPS is committed to working with partners to take initiative in the early intervention and engagement space, to help change the lives of young people.
“There’s no doubt that these young men will head home and be the talk of the town, sharing their experience of mentorship with some of their footy idols,” Superintendent Fleischer said.
“An experience like this can change the trajectory of a young person’s life, simply by boosting confidence, self-reflection and provoking motivation to be the best individual they can be for their community.
“I can’t thank PCYC and the Kangaroos enough for working with us to make this day happen, it’s partnerships like this which have a real impact, and I know we all felt a sense of pride watching that play out in real time during this event.”
