Sportman’s lunch a success

NEWCOMB Power Football and Netball Club’s Sportsman’s Lunch raised more $10,000, allowing the club to continue to facilitate all-abilities football and netball programs for local athletes.

Newcomb Power junior coordinator Scott Smith said money raised at Friday afternoon’s Grand Final Eve event, hosted at Grinter Reserve, will assist in delivering all-abilities programs across Greater Geelong.

“To raise the amount of money that we did on Friday is absolutely fantastic and the day overall was just brilliant,” Smith said.

“Sam Moorfoot and Tyler Vandermeer who assist with our all-abilities Auskick program were just amazing with their words on inclusion and Brad (Ottens), Lingy (Cameron Ling) and Wojo (David Wojcinski) also complimented that and were very entertaining.

“$10,000 for our all-abilities program is a huge step towards getting our program into schools and the wider community so that it becomes more accessible for all kids.

“The funds will help to buy equipment, push the program into different areas and in the end, make sure more kids are kitted out to participate from an affordability point of view.”

The Grand Final Day Eve fundraiser included a special Q and A session Geelong Cats premiership royalty Brad Ottens (a late inclusion for Matthew Stokes), Cameron Ling and David Wojcinski, with the crowd enjoying asking their favourite footy questions to the trio.

Tyler and Sam who play in the Football Integration Development Association (FIDA) were also on hand to share their wisdom and encouragement about the role that inclusion plays in the community.

The pair also spoke to the crowd alongside MC and program coordinator at Leisure Networks Luke Maher about how the funds raised on the day can positively impact intellectually impaired people who want to make their sporting dreams come true.

Meals and drinks were provided on the day by Newcomb Power junior club volunteers and members.

Smith said the club couldn’t wait for the 2023 Sportsman’s Lunch to roll around and hoped the funds would continue to establish more opportunities for all-abilities athletes across Greater Geelong.