Ongoing lockdowns and the NRL’s relocation to Queensland hasn’t stopped key Sydney Roosters players from backing the Little Legends at Ronald McDonald House Charities on their recovery journey.
The unique connections between the players and families commenced in March as part of a new national partnership that aims to make a difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families on their treatment journey.
The initiative is part of an ongoing focus by the Roosters and Steggles to help support Aussie children’s charities which has helped raise $4.5m through the Steggles Roosters Charity Nest.
Roosters players including Angus Crichton, Victor Radley and James Tedesco kicked off the partnerships through family visits at the Randwick House pre-lockdown, which has since continued via regular Zoom calls from the Roosters’ NRL’s bubble.
Roosters player Angus Crichton says the players were honoured to be welcomed into the House by children and families during what is a really challenging time.
“We’ve been really overwhelmed by the strength and determination of the Little Legends and the families that we’ve met so far. Hearing their stories of resilience has been really inspiring,” Mr Crichton said.
“Which is why we’re really proud to partner with Ronald McDonald House and Steggles on this ongoing partnership. It might be virtual for now, but we hope we can make a meaningful impact on their lives even if it’s a just a laugh or smile.”
RMHC Sydney CEO Simone Daher says “The relationship that we have with the Steggles and the Roosters has been an impactful one, especially in these times when families are even more isolated due to Covid stay at home restrictions.
“We’ve seen first-hand that the players are genuinely connected with the kids and we hear lots of laughter coming from the Zoom connections. Creating that kind of energy is hard over Zoom, but they players are naturally making these sessions fun and interactive. It’s great to see and hear. We look forward to when we can them all back in the House again,” Ms Daher said.
Steggles Charity Nest Hits $4.5m to Children’s Charities
The Roosters and Steggles announced that the Steggles Roosters Charity Nest has hit a key milestone of $4.5m donated to Australian children’s charities since the initiative started in 2010.
The amount was raised through an initiative that sees Steggles donate $1000 and Roosters donate $250 for every margin point the Roosters win by. The initiative has supported a range of children’s charities including Children’s Cancer Institute, Lifestart and The Children’s Hospital Foundation Brisbane.
Steggles Head of Marketing Yash Gandhi says “This milestone is a true testament to our partnership with the Rooster’s that has enabled us to support the great work that Australian Children’s Charities do every day. We look forward to continuing this work to drive much needed funds and awareness to their great cause.”