Sharks promote Simply Your Best in NRL School Blitz

From Waterfall to Cronulla, the Sharks NRL squad spread positivity across the Sutherland Shire on Monday in an impactful School Blitz, engaging with hundreds of ecstatic students and educators.

Fresh off a sensational home win over the Rabbitohs, the group dedicated time to delivering the "Simply Your Best" program in collaboration with the local NRL Game Development team led by Sharks NRLW star Quincy Dodd.

The players provided insights into the healthy choices that help them perform at their best on and off the field, encouraging kids to do the same. There was also time for footy drills, photos and signatures in an outstanding morning.

Sharks halfback Nicho Hynes, who stopped by Kareela and Kirrawee Public School, said the blitz brought back memories of when he was a youngster.

"It's pretty cool. I remember when I was a kid and I had the odd occasion where a footy player came to school – I was the exact same as what they were," Hynes said.

"It makes you feel good and makes you feel like you're making a positive impact.

"That's what we want to do here at the Sharks."

Blayke Brailey, who was part of Hynes' group alongside Hohepa Puru and Toby Rudolf, added: "When you're feeling pretty sore after a game and come to a school where they're all cheering and excited, it makes you feel a lot better."

"I was a local junior and when Sharks players came to my school it was the best day of the year," continued the hooker, a Holy Family Primary Menai alumnus.

Brailey told the spellbound kids at Kareela Public School: "Playing rugby league, you have to be fit and strong, so I eat the best foods I can." Hynes, meanwhile, said a daily routine kept him in peak mental and physical condition.

The Sharks visited schools at Taren Point, Jannali, Kareela, Yarrawarrah, Waterfall, Menai, Caringbah, Bonnet Bay, Kirrawee, Cronulla and Sutherland.

Sharks Head of Community Vinh Tran said the annual NRL School Blitz showed the deep connection between the club and the local area.

"It's always a thrill for the students to meet their heroes, but the players get just as much enjoyment out of these occasions," Tran said.

"We have a group that embrace their standing as role models and understand the impact they can have with their words and actions. On the back of a huge game, it was terrific to see them dedicate their morning to inspiring the next generation."