In seizing an opportunity to reflect on the contribution the Cronulla Club makes to support the community, the Sharks NRL team will tackle the Newcastle Knights in a specially designed Sharks Have Heart (SHH) jersey this weekend.
The limited edition community jersey, with 320 members and fans purchasing and having their names printed and incorporated into the design, is aimed at highlighting the great community work done and programs supported by SHH, often taking place away from media recognition.
Each jersey has a unique serial number, with only 320 printed for sale. The remainder of the jerseys produced will be worn by the NRL players, then auctioned off after their Sharks Have Heart round game against Newcastle on Sunday afternoon.
All funds collected from sales of the jersey and also the subsequent auction, go directly to SHH to support the range of community programs an initiatives delivered by staff, community partners and our playing group.
As with all SHH fundraising and in line with its objectives, these funds will be split up across the three key pillars of Inclusivity & Diversity, Social Impact and Have Heart.
While an outstanding initiative and unique jersey design, the concept was enhanced by the backing of major partner Aramex, who will forgo their front of jersey branding in support of the community jersey.
As explained by Peter Lipinski, Aramex CEO Oceania Region, their commitment to the community very much aligns with the work done by the Sharks, making the decision to support the jersey and community initiative an easy one.
“When we were approached to support the Sharks Have Heart jersey we didn't hesitate,” Lipinski said. “At Aramex we are very aware of how much the Sharks do in the community for individuals, groups, programs and initiatives. Similarly, Aramex puts an emphasis on supporting the many communities where we have a footprint.
“To forgo our front of jersey branding for this week, to help to highlight Sharks Have Heart and the wonderful work they do, was an easy decision for us to make.”
Members and fans can learn more about some of what is being achieved in the community through SHH support, can check out the 2020 SHH yearly report - CLICK HERE to read https://www.sharks.com.au/siteassets/community/shh_yearlyreviewbooklet2020_a4_fin_v2.pdf.
Despite challenges around the current health situation, the Sharks have continued their support of programs such as the Family Co and the valuable resources they provide families, especially those affected by domestic violence, and the Deadly Choices program, which plays a major role in promoting indigenous health within our community, aiming to educate and empower the local Indigenous community to live a healthy and active lifestyle.
In addition, other key programs delivered and through direct support from SHH, includes 1000+ hours spent in the community by staff and players, $187,000 of in-kind donations, all across 37 different charities.
Although being played on the Gold Coast away from the Sharks traditional base, this home round, featuring the inaugural SHH jersey, coincides with the Club’s annual charity round, where it is a chance to reflect on the amazing contributions the Sharks make to support the community.
SHH also thanks major program partner Woolooware Bay and the many donors for their ongoing support.
