In the lead-up to the NRL Indigenous Round this week, the Cronulla Sharks hosted four school-to-work participants at their Round 9 captain’s run.
Year 11 students, Mulu Moran, Jai Townsend, Madison Amatto and Kyanne Robinson-Armstrong, were rewarded with the opportunity to watch the Sharks train after being selected to represent the club at the annual NRL Indigenous Youth Summit set to be held at the NSWRL Centre of Excellence this week.
School to Work Regional Leader, Robyn Minici, and Sharks School to Work Project Officer, Jamal Chami, also attended, speaking to the students about the Summit and congratulating them on their selection, before the representatives were presented with Shark’s community polos by Indigenous NRLW player, Jada Taylor, and marquee signing, Emma Tonegato.
Following training, the students had the opportunity to engage with the NRL squad, including Indigenous players Jesse Ramien, William Kennedy and Nicho Hynes, who generously presented them with signed boots and kicking tees - a highlight for the girls and boys in attendance.
"I enjoyed the presentation,” Malu said. “I'd say my favourite part was meeting Nicho Hynes and the rest of the Cronulla staff and players."
Following their visit to Pointsbet Stadium, the students were taken to Kurnell, where they further connected with their culture and learned about the Aboriginal history of the area they will be representing at the Summit.
"It was an unreal experience to go to the Cronulla Sharks captains run and meet some of the players,” Jai said. “Also, I got to see Kurnell and learn about some history of the land which was so good."
The four Sharks representatives will join 64 other students selected to represent the remaining 16 NRL clubs at the Indigenous Youth Summit in Sydney this week. Attendees will participate in leadership and cultural activities throughout the week, providing them with valuable experience, knowledge, and leadership qualities that they can take back to their school and community to support local initiatives and continue their leadership journey.
