The Big Give is an event supporting central Victorian community groups. The Bendigo Advertiser will be profiling several of the registered campaigns each week until the initiative ends with a 24-hour giving day on September 1.
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A group of self-described footy tragics are raising money to help more children participate in sport.
Each year, Golden Square Football Netball Club runs a winter school holiday program.
The first three days of the holidays are filled with football and, more recently, netball.
Organisers are hopeful of expanding the program’s reach in future.
They have launched a Big Give campaign to raise $5000 to help achieve that goal.
Committee member Scott Wilkinson said organisers wanted to provide complimentary tickets to families that could not otherwise afford to participate in the $145 program.
The tickets would be distributed by primary schools.
“Times are tough for more than a few and for some families the thought of dishing out extra money in the holidays is dreaded,” the Big Give page reads.
“As cheap as our program is, it’s still cheaper to have the kids stay home and play Xbox or watch TV.
“We want to make this option of a fun, healthy three days with mates accessible, regardless of family income.
“Coupled with this, we want to keep costs affordable for everyone.”
If the Big Give campaign achieves its fundraising goal, organisers said more than 30 children could attend the program at no charge.
“We'd also like to purchase some kids-sized footballs and netballs and some full sets of footy jumpers (of varied sizes) and netball bibs,” the Big Give page reads.
The football holiday program schedule involves skills sessions and free play. Children are of varied ages and skill.
“As well as lots of fresh air, mud and exercise, the footballers compete for the Fitzpatrick Cup and Fitzpatrick Medal,” the Big Give page reads.
“Both are coveted prizes amongst the kids (and their namesake and longtime supporter Fitzy).
“We also hold a draft, press conferences and have visits from ex-AFL players and local umpires.”
The program includes lunches and snacks, a newsletter and a skills development report at the end.
“It's full on,” the Big Give page reads.
Mr Wilkinson said participants did not have to be affiliated with Golden Square Football Netball Club, but could come from anywhere.
This year, the organisers offered a one-day netball program.
Committee member Scott Wilkinson was hopeful it would be extended to a three-day program in future, a strong turnout.
“We want to offer netballers the same opportunity the footballers have been offered, focusing on skill development and fun,” he said.
To donate to the Big Give Boots n All campaign, click here.