The Parkes PCYC delegation beforeboarding the bus to head to Sydney for the Nations of Origin Tournament.
In an unprecedented opportunity, Parkes PCYC have sent a delegation to participate in the Nations of Origin Tournament, which is held around NAIDOC week each year.
Parkes PCYC have sent two rugby league teams and a gymnastics team to Sydney to represent their nations and Parkes PCYC.
This prestigious event brings together approximately 1,500 indigenous and non-indigenous students to compete in a variety of sports.
Parkes PCYC Club Manager Kimberley Sherrett said, “This is an experience most children will likely not experience again, and for that we are thrilled to be a part of it.
“We have aimed to raise all funds needed to offset the costs associated with this event. Between donations, fundraising and sponsorship we raised a huge $20,000. We even secured funding to take the kids aqua golfing, which they are so excited for.”
In the lead up to the event, last Saturday 13th July, the two under 16 rugby league teams headed to Peak Hill for the indigenous round of the men’s and league tag teams. The PCYC teams played a trial game against each other and were presented with their new uniforms, that had been organised specifically for the Nations of Origin Tournament.
“We have had a helping hand from volunteer coaches, who have come on board to prepare these teams. Ollie, Kate and Andy Thomas have prepared one football team, Torin Hando and Jordan McDougall have prepared the other football team and Sam Clark has prepared our gym girls,” said Kimberley.