Hawks set to Ride4Rotary in support of disadvantaged youth

The Illawarra Hawks will proudly participate in this year’s virtual Ride4Rotary in support of our charity partner - Southern Youth and Family Services.

The Hawks will take part in the 'virtual ride' category which will see the squad logging their rides anytime between May 1 - May 23 to achieve a certain goal. So whether they are in the gym, at home or on the road, the Hawks will be pumping out the kilometres this May for a great cause.

Ride4Rotary will provide support and assistance to vulnerable, disadvantaged and homeless young people between the ages of 12 and 24.

Former Hawks legend and club community engagement officer, Tim Coenraad, said this was a great way for the team to give something back to the local community.

"This is a great initiative for the boys to be part of. There are so many young people in up and down the South Coast who are doing it tough and we are always looking for ways to support those less fortunate than us," Coenraad said.

"Our communities have been dealt a rough hand in the last couple of years. Life can be tough enough without the added pressure of bushfires, floods and COVID-19, so anything we can do to try and alleviate the burden of homelessness is something we're proud to be a part of," Coenraad said.

Hawks power forward Cam Bairstow said the side was 'beyond excited' to get involved.

"Many of us have been fortunate to travel the world and play the sport we love for a living. A lot of kids don't get that luxury or are brought up in an environment where things aren't easy. Hopefully we can all get on the bike as much as possible to help support them and their dreams," Bairstow said.

You can sponsor the Hawks Team HERE and find out all you need to know about getting involved at www.ride4rotaryillawarra.com.au

You can also join the Illawarra Hawks Ride4Rotary team by creating a profile, searching for the 'Illawarra Hawks' team page and clicking 'Join'. 

All money raised will help fund SYFS Education, Employment and Training Programs assisting vulnerable and disadvantaged youth to increase their chances at enjoying a greater quality of life.

About Southern Youth and Family Services

Southern Youth and Family Services (SYFS), is an independent, local community-based benevolent (charity) organisation in the Southern part of NSW. This support extends to the children and families of these young people.

The target group includes:

• young people aged twelve to twenty four years who are homeless and/or otherwise disadvantaged (unemployed, in poverty, experiencing housing stress etc) and/or vulnerable.
• young people in the care of the State Department and State Wards
• people with disabilities
• Aboriginal people
• people from Non-English Speaking Backgrounds
• young offenders and those at risk of entering the Juvenile Justice system
• young people in need of protection who have been abused or are at risk of abuse
• people with mental health issues