When Waverley Blues president Gavin Kaye was looking to organise a team bonding session for players, he took the unusual step of looking to his local community for inspiration.
“I was chatting with Phil Murton (EFL CEO) a couple of years ago and he had the thought that it would be great if EFL clubs could find a way to further engage or contribute in some way to their local community” He said.
The Blues did just that, last Saturday 40 Blues players, converged on the Oakleigh Centre to volunteer their services in a massive maintenance blitz.
Oakleigh Centre’s Executive Manager, Business Enterprises, Tony Hogg stated.
“The Centre’s mission is to provide a range of specialised support services which enhance the quality of life for people with primarily an intellectual disability and their families.”
From painting a portable art room to laying new pathways, repairing an irrigation system and trimming plants and mulching garden beds, the football players were kicking goals of different kind as they carried out the much-needed works.
The club was keen to involve its players in an activity that would not only make a difference to others, but gave them the opportunity to give back to their community.
“We wanted a team bonding event that was more than simply kicking a footy around, this is something the players can do together and will give them a real sense of achievement.” Kaye Said
Hogg, welcomed the footballer volunteers and their contribution.
“We have a maintenance department of just three people and have wanted to do most of these jobs for a long time, but just haven’t had the resources.
“As a not for profit organisation, we rely heavily on the generosity of others to support us and the work we do. This is such an incredible gesture from the Waverley Blues and represents a savings of many thousands of dollars for the Centre, we can’t thank them enough,” said Mr Hogg.
The Waverley Blues were all supportive of the program that allowed them to give back to their local community, Kaye stating;
“By doing this not only are we helping an organisation in need who do great work in our community, but we also used it as a team building exercise away from standard football training.
“[Ultimately] this is a way to show the community that we are more than just a football club”