Sporting schools a ROARing success

HOLLY FENWICK

Bracken Ridge State School students are enjoying Brisbane Roar coached soccer sessions as part of the government’s $100 million Sporting Schools initiative.

The program has been launched to get more children playing sports and living a healthier lifestyle.

Bracken Ridge State School’s deputy principal, Ben Laws is very appreciative of the program and believes it is beneficial to the student’s health and wellbeing.

“Research indicates low to moderate intensity exercise helps children with brain function, while the students also get to learn a skill set and have fun,” Mr Laws said.

The school is receiving positive feedback from parents and students who enjoy the sessions and believe the Brisbane Roar coaches are doing a fantastic job.

“The coaches’ enthusiasm and passion around soccer and coaching has got a really positive response from our students, and it is creating that positive culture,” Mr Laws said.

While Brisbane Roar has been involved in community programs for ten years, the funding provided by Sporting Schools has allowed them to reach more children at all levels and those who otherwise may not have access to sports.

As the only accredited soccer provider to Sporting Schools in Queensland, Brisbane Roar are providing soccer sessions to far reaching areas, including the Aboriginal community of Doomadgee, two hours west of Mount Isa.

Brisbane Roar Community Football Program Manager Andy Pinches says he is passionate about getting children of all abilities active and engaging in sport.

“Though it can be a challenge to service the whole of Queensland, it is important to ensure we go the extra mile to deliver our program to all kids, regardless of location,”  Mr Pinches said.

With the success around Sporting Schools, the Australian Sporting Commission has given the program an 18 month extension, through to December 2018 and is investing an additional $60 million to introduce the scheme to secondary schools.