Rabbitohs at NRL Children’s Christmas Party
10 Dec 2009
Jamie Simpson, Dave Taylor, Eddy Pettybourne and Ben Ross were among a host of the NRL’s stars who came together at ANZ Stadium yesterday, to treat a special group of children to an afternoon of Christmas cheer at the NRL Players’ Charity Christmas Party.
More than 30 players from across the NSW-based NRL clubs hosted the annual Christmas event, sharing lunch with the children in the dressing rooms, before taking them through a skills clinic and inflatable obstacle course.
The players also lent a hand during a visit from Santa, giving out presents to the more than 70 children who attended from One Community charity partners the Children’s Hospital Foundations Australia (CHFA) and National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), and the PCYC, Northcott Society and Ronald McDonald House.
“These kids have had a tough year and an event like this really brings a lot of happiness at a time when they need it most,” said South Sydney Rabbitoh and Telstra Ken Stephen Medal nominee Jamie Simpson.
“Having been through a similar situation when I was young, being here for these kids is really important to me and talking to the players here today, we all know what a huge difference it can make to lift their spirits.”
NRL CEO David Gallop was glowing in his praise of the work the NRL players do.
“This year, NRL players spent 22,000 hours in the community, and the NRL and clubs raised $1.8 million for charity,” Mr Gallop said.
“You only have to watch the enjoyment children get from spending time with the players and Santa to realise the positive impact One Community has.”
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