The Bulldogs are set to make an unforgettable entrance at Salter Oval, Bundaberg, as they partner once again with Walk With Me 4 Autism All Abilities Rugby League Program for an inspiring curtain-raiser. This heartwarming event will precede the NRL Telstra Premiership Round 24 clash between the Bulldogs and Dolphins.
Founded by Bundaberg locals Sonya Olsen and Judy Fenn, Walk With Me 4 Autism Rugby League Program provides an inclusive rugby league experience for kids and adults with special needs. This year as in previous years, the program will once again showcase its talented participants on the main field before the NRL kick off, adding a special touch to the Bulldogs’ matchday.
Bulldogs CEO Aaron Warburton expressed the Club's enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We’re a community-based Club who are dedicated to creating opportunities, and to diversity and inclusion. Put simply, this partnership allows us to connect more people with the game we love and it helps the participants, their families and spectators to build special, core memories. We’re thrilled to see these incredible individuals share the field with our players and celebrate their passion for rugby league.”
Walk With Me 4 Autism All Abilities Rugby League Program Founder, Sonya Olsen added: "The support from the Bulldogs year on year has been extraordinary, culminating in this incredible opportunity for our players to participate in the curtain-raiser this weekend. This partnership not only underscores the importance of inclusivity in rugby league but also affirms that children and young adults of all abilities deserve to experience the joy of team sports.
"Our original vision was to create a safe space and an opportunity for children with different abilities be able to come together, go out onto a footy field, make new friends and experience the happiness that rugby league brings. From a modest idea, our All Abilities program has grown to over 80 participants in 2024, with 55% identifying as having different abilities. We are thrilled that our players, some of which prior to the introduction of our program may have never had the chance to play before, will now have the opportunity to step onto Salter Oval, share in the excitement of a Bulldogs home game, and experience the atmosphere of a Premiership match. We are deeply grateful for the Club's unwavering support and the belief they have shown in our program.”
While some of the participants have indicated their nerves, they are mostly looking forward to taking the field at Salter Oval in-front of the home crowd. The matches will play out on the main field between 1:00pm and 2:10pm.
Fans are encouraged to come out and support this special event, celebrating both the spirit of sport and inclusivity. With just under 1,000 tickets remaining and a sell-out expected, don’t miss your chance to be part of this special occasion. Secure your tickets now via Ticketek and join in the celebration at Salter Oval next Saturday!
