Running every Tuesday over the past four weeks, the first ever Friendy's Footy Program was a resounding success, introducing young children to the fundamental skills of Rugby League.
For 45 minutes per session over a four-week block, groups of children aged 4-6 learned skills and gained the confidence to have fun and play Rugby League in traditional Roosters heartland in Waverley.
Skills such as landing safely, ball handling (including catching and passing), evasion and spatial awareness, as well as the basic fundamentals of tackling, were taught throughout the program, with the aim to introduce children to Rugby League in a safe environment.
We're all about looking after our community, the kids in the community and giving them the best shot to come in, play some footy and hopefully one day become a Roosters player.
Mitchell Aubusson Roosters Club Legend, Recruiter for Junior Pathways, Football Operations and Club Ambassador
After an enjoyable four weeks, all participants were rewarded for their efforts with a drink bottle and hat, and were presented with a completion certificate.
Club Recruiter for Junior Pathways, Football Operations and Club Ambassador Mitchell Aubusson was on hand alongside his former teammates Jake Friend and Luke Keary to help induct the newest participants to the game of Rugby League.
"It was great to see all the young kids in the Roosters community getting out and playing some footy," Aubusson said.
"The program was all about teaching the basic skills of footy and was a chance for kids to socialise and have some fun.
"We're all about looking after our community, the kids in the community and giving them the best shot to come in, play some footy and hopefully one day become a Roosters player."
Roosters Community Coordinator Claire Reed echoed Aubusson's sentiments, highlighting the quick development of all participants involved.
"It was a great way to introduce Rugby League to boys and girls in a safe environment," she said.
"It was great to see the progression the groups made within all aspects of the program."
