Free footwear for BFNL juniors

SOME of the the Ballarat Football and Netball League’s young registered players are set to receive a free pair of runners, and a pep in their step.

Boys and girls in the Under 9 to Under 14 age groups are to be presented with sports shoes as part of a partnership between the Western Bulldogs and ASICS Oceania.

“We’re thrilled to launch this initiative with our Ballarat family in one of the strongest footy regions in Australia,” said Western Bulldogs’ chief commercial and strategy officer, Kon Karavias.

“Supporting communities is at the heart of both ASICS and the Bulldogs philosophy, and with the Ballarat region and surrounds having had some recent challenges, both our organisations felt compelled to offer a small token of support to a community that has embraced the Bulldogs and our partners from day one.

“We hope that this initiative brings some joy to kids and their families and plays a small part in strengthening their connection with community football and their clubs.

“Finally, thank you to ASICS for their continued commitment to our club, and for their generous support of this new community initiative.”

ASICS Oceania staff have also pledged to financially back annual grassroots sport programs, and to support Bulldogs members and supporters with an aim of boosting the next generation of athletes in Western Victoria.

“We are delighted to further our partnership with the Western Bulldogs, and by extension, support the local Ballarat community,” said ASICS Oceania managing director, Mark Brunton.

“We recognise the profound impact sports can have on the wellbeing and development of children, and its ability to unite communities.

“By providing footwear to young athletes, we hope to help foster a love of sports amongst the children of Ballarat, helping them to perform at their best. We are incredibly proud to play a role in supporting the next generation of players in the region.”