Perth, 21 February. In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship and community support, West Coast Eagles champion Jamie Cripps hosted an extraordinary footy clinic for over 40 young people with diabetes. The ProtoDPS DRWA Crippa Fun Footy Clinic, held at the Eagles’ training ground, was not just about football; it was a beacon of hope for young people managing diabetes.
Jamie Cripps, the only AFL player with Type 1 Diabetes and an ambassador for Diabetes Research Western Australia, shared his experiences and inspired the youngsters. His presence was a testament to the fact that diabetes is not a barrier to achieving sporting excellence.
The clinic catered to children aged 6-16, offering them a unique opportunity to train with the Eagles’ players, learn top tips from the pros, and, most importantly, meet and interact with role models. It wasn’t all about footy drills and skills; the event also included a tour of the Eagles’ training facilities, allowing the kids to experience a day in the life of an AFL player.
Jamie Cripps, Medium Forward at the West Coast Eagles and Type-1 Diabetic urged young people to find out what’s important to them and pursue it: “Once you receive a diagnosis, it’s important to be vigilant and do what you must to stay healthy. But it will only stop you from achieving your dreams if you let it. Anything fuelled by passion, dreams and hard work will be a success!”
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This ProtoDPS DRWA Crippa Fun Footy Clinic, was more than a sporting event; it was a platform for encouragement, demonstrating to these young people that their dreams are valid and achievable, regardless of the challenges they face with diabetes. It underscored the importance of community support and the powerful role of sports in fostering resilience and confidence.
Brad Russell-Lane, Director at Diabetes Research WA and lead organiser of the footy clinic commented: “Young people look for role models like Jamie, as it shows you can do anything at the most elite level. But they also look for kinship and people who are just like them. The footy clinic aims to inspire and connect.
Let’s celebrate this fantastic initiative that not only honed the footy skills of these youngsters but also scored a goal in the hearts of many, proving that with determination, support, and the right role models, every hurdle can be crossed.
For more details about the ProtoDPS Diabetes Research WA Crippa fun footy clinic, please contact us.
The ProtoDPS DRWA Crippa Fun Footy Clinic would not have been possible without the support of the following partners who kindly donated funds, time and goods to make the day a success.
Naming Sponsor:
Support Partners:
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| Burley Sekem | Woolworths Dog Swamp | Telethon Research Center |
