10 March 2020

Canberra's sports clubs give community spirit a kick along

| Tim Gavel
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Kick 2 Kick 4 A Cause

Everyone can get involved on 4-5 April to raise funds for Menslink. Photo: Supplied.

In his speech at the official opening of the Raiders new Centre of Excellence, NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro spoke about the involvement of the Raiders with people of the region impacted by bushfires. He was referring to the community tour conducted by players and coach Ricky Stuart.

The Brumbies also had involvement with fire-affected communities through the Bushfire 7s in Braidwood. Similarly, the UC Capitals, Canberra United, ACT Netball, the Canberra Brave and the Cavalry, as well as Cricket ACT, all work hard for the community they represent. Relentlessly so.

In fact, it’s difficult finding a sports club in Canberra that doesn’t help those in need in one way or another.

Born of this incredible community spirit within sports are programs like Kick 2 Kick Kick 4 A Cause, which raises much-needed funds for Menslink, a leading Canberra support service for young men.

Kick 2 Kick is a uniquely Canberra fund-raising event which involves teams of players kicking an Aussie Rules ball for 24 hours, in the process, raising funds for Menslink.

Now in its third year, Kick 2 Kick has so far raised $150,000 for Menslink with the money raised providing much-needed funding for hundreds of free education sessions in schools, sporting clubs and workplaces across the region.

These sessions include the Silence is Deadly and Pride Group programs aimed at reducing the stigma of asking for help in tough times. The programs help build resilience and mental fitness so that young men are better equipped with life skills to avoid running into trouble.

Menslink CEO Martin Fisk says Kick 2 Kick is now one of Menslink’s biggest events of the year.

This year’s event, which takes place at Deakin Oval over the weekend of 4-5 April, has attracted around 15 teams. Teams usually consist of 10 to 12 players.

For the first time, major AFL clubs Canberra, Belconnen and Ainslie are also involved.

Kick 2 Kick Organiser Paul Eccles says there is still time for businesses and individuals to come on board as event sponsors.

As part of the fund-raising, items will also be auctioned on ALLBIDS so everyone can get involved.

Construction companies and other organisations that traditionally employ young men are particularly invited to be involved.

For further details, head to Kick 2 Kick 4 A Cause.

Both Menslink and Kick 2 Kick 4 A Cause are unique to Canberra and demonstrate, in the most tangible way, how our community helps others. Especially our local sporting clubs.

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