Hawks to host United in inaugural LifeChanger Cup clash

The Illawarra Hawks will be playing for more than the victory when they host Melbourne United on Sunday, January 9.

The round six NBL22 fixture at the WIN Entertainment Centre will mark the first-ever LifeChanger Cup showdown, whose foundation creates resilient communities to empower teenagers through positive self-identity and is a cause close to the Hawks' heart.

"Now more than ever, being resilient and positive are traits that we all need to have, regardless if you're on the court or in the stands," said Hawks community engagement officer Tim Coenraad, whose team will also play against United on February 6 and 20 at John Cain Arena.

“It’s so important for a professional sporting organisation to enter the mental health space today, considering the rise in mental health issues and youth suicide. 

“Professional athletes have unique qualities that they can really make a difference to a young person’s life, even with the minimal amount of time that they can donate. 

“A few words of encouragement from a sports star can change a life for the better.”

As part of the initiative, both teams will wear specially designed yellow socks, commentators and coaches will sport LifeChanger pins and QR codes will be set up around the WIN Entertainment Centre as a way for patrons to donate to the worthy cause. 

“I know that the LifeChanger Cup can help spread awareness, not only for the fantastic work that LifeChanger does but also for the fact that mental health is really coming to the forefront as a serious illness that needs our attention,” Coenraad said.

“Hopefully, this is the start of something really big and significant between the Hawks, United and the LifeChanger Foundation.”

Coenraad’s excitement is echoed by Hawks co-owner and president Dorry Kordahi.

“It’s really exciting to see the idea come to fruition, as our club are big proponents of supporting the Illawarra community,” Kordahi said.

"The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow and any way we can help empower them to reach their goals is worthwhile in my books."

The LifeChanger youth program centres on the five key pillars: health, skills, self, purpose and tribe. 

This holistic approach aims to create a greater understanding of identity, as well as a sense of purpose and optimism towards the future. 

“When a young person becomes isolated, it's almost an impossible place to grow from,” said LifeChanger CEO/founder Scott Watters, whose foundation was created in 2016.

“Our program provides an opportunity to connect, which we think is a pretty powerful thing.

“It's important that young people get the opportunity to explore who they are because when they really uncover that, they'll realise that there's nothing but infinite possibilities.”

Click here for more details on LifeChanger.

Alternatively, if you or anyone else is experiencing hardship or if this has triggered you in any way and need of support, please reach out to:

Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Kids Help Line: https://kidshelpline.com.au/

LifeLine: https://www.lifeline.org.au/

Tickets for the Hawks' next three home fixtures at the WIN Entertainment Centre are available via Ticketmaster.