Rebels reach new heights with our youth programs

RaboDirect Rebels Nick Stirzaker, Luke Jones and Isaiah Mosese recently joined children from three Mission Australia youth programs - Solid Ground, Arise and Youth Connections Northern Suburbs - for an afternoon of indoor rock climbing.

Sturdily anchored by players, these young climbers found new heights. Some really embraced the challenge, reaching a dizzying 16 metres in height. Others needed a little more encouragement to scale the indoor cliff-face, which the players were happy to provide.

RaboDirect Rebels lock Luke Jones, who is aligned with Mission Australia as part of the club’s 5 Star Engagement Program said, “It was a great experience for us and it was good to interact with the kids from Mission Australia.

“It reminded us all, the kids and the players, that when confronted with a challenge it’s important to tackle it a step at a time and before you know it you’ve overcome the challenge.

“It was a great exercise in trust-building, too. There were some kids who needed a bit more encouragement than others. But knowing that we had them anchored securely, they felt safe, and with a bit of encouragement they kept climbing,” Luke said.

The players also had a go at climbing the wall, but found it was a lot harder than it looked, particularly after a training session that morning.

“However, when it came for it to be our turn, I think we struggled more than the kids did,” Luke laughed. “It was a fun day all in all and I’m looking forward to the next event with Mission Australia.”

Mission Australia Youth Services Coordinator Annmarie Camilleri said all the children “really enjoyed the chance to experience something different in the Rebels’ company”.

One lucky fan even had the boys sign his little brother’s rugby boots and received a RaboDirect Rebels cap as an early Christmas surprise.

Alongside Mission Australia, RaboDirect Rebels is continuing to help young people steer their lives in a positive direction. Find out more about Mission Australia in Victoria.