Wing's Off-field Performance for Down Syndrome Kids
03 Mar 2008
Craig Wing not only made the day for thousands of South Sydney supporters with his last-minute try at the Charity Shield, he also made the year for 25 very special fans.
One of those is Kirsty Wing, Craig's youngest sister.
Kirsty has Down Syndrome, leading Craig to be a long-time patron of the Down Syndrome Association of NSW.
Last Saturday he arranged a BBQ at his home for 25 children with Down Syndrome and their carers, followed by a trip to ANZ Stadium for the annual Charity Shield game.
South Sydney Mascot Reggie Rabbit made an appearance at the BBQ, alongside South's Executive Chairman and Co-Owner Peter Holmes à Court, who gave every guest an iconic Rabbitohs cap.
Following an afternoon playing in Craig's backyard, the guests and their carers hopped on a bus to ANZ Stadium to watch Craig and the rest of the team in action against the Dragons.
The day could not have ended better for the 25 special guests. Craig's match-winning try was followed by a tour of the dressing room where a select few of the children celebrated with the team and met boxing champion Anthony Mundine.
"It was an unbelievable feeling seeing the kids in the shed," said Craig.
"After (coach) JT spoke to us, two of the kids addressed the team and thanked us for their support.
"It was inspiring stuff.”
Those who did not make it into the dressing sheds were also in for a surprise. The 25 kids cheered with pride when Craig jumped on the bus for the journey back to Bronte.
"The bus trip was just inspiring," said Priscilla Leong, Marketing and Events Co-Coordinator for Down Syndrome New South Wales.
"Craig Wing is not just a brilliant footballer he is a brilliant person.
"No words of appreciation can do justice for what he has done for these kids, I'm speechless".
As for Craig Wing, he claims "not to have done much".
"Instead, they have done so much for me," he says.
"It's hard to explain the effect they have, but if you just spend some time with these very special kids you will know exactly what I mean."
Craig Wing is hosting a dinner in aid of Down Syndrome NSW on Wednesday 2 April. To purchase a ticket to "On a Wing and a Prayer" please contact melanie@internationalevents.com.au.
Source: NRL One Community website - www.rugbyleague.com.au/onecommunity.