Charlie Tonga in action for the Canterbury Bulldogs. Photo by AAP Image/Action Photographics/Colin Whelan.
Southern Riverina families are encouraged to make the trip to Deniliquin this weekend, for a community policing event with a sporty twist.
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Four national sport stars will feature at a sports clinic at Deniliquin Rotary Park this Saturday.
Chief Inspector Michael Fuller said Murray River Police District is partnering with other local groups and organisations to host the event.
It includes Deniliquin Neighbourhood Watch instigator and soccer coach Diego Sztejman, long-time rugby union advocate Tim Strong, Pastor Keith Waters from Ignite Life Church, and Pastor Mark Horan from the Sydney-based Impact Team.
The guest sport stars come from the worlds of soccer, boxing and rugby.
“We wanted to create an opportunity for conversation with young people and adults through sport, and the opportunity for them to hear from sporting legends who have faced challenges in their own lives as well as playing at the highest level,” Chief Insp Fuller said.
“If it breaks down barriers with police, and gives people some things to consider as they make better choices, that’s the outcome we want.
“We recognise there is a need for a conversation about youth and the support they need, and hope this event is an opportunity for further discussion and connection building between community, agencies and young people.”
The guest stars secured are:
• Charlie Tonga - a former National Rugby League player for Canterbury and the Sydney Roosters. Also coached and represented Tonga in rugby.
• Gerry Gomez - a former Australia’s National Soccer League player for Sydney City, Marconi, APIA-Leichhardt and Parramatta Eagles. He also represented the Australian B Socceroos in the 1985 world series club tournament.
• Solomon Haumono - a former professional heavyweight division boxer who competed from 2004 to 2019 with a professional record of 24 wins (21 by knockout) and four losses. He also played successfully in the NRL and represented Tonga.
• Makayla Manu - a Southern Districts rugby player who has played in the rugby 15s, 10s and 7s, represented the Sydney Roosters in the U19 2021 Tasha Gale Squad and had the privilege of being a part of the AUS 7 emerging squad.
“Come along, meet some new people, learn some new skills and maybe even tackle the police in conversation or on the field,” Chief Insp Fuller said.
“The day will kick off, literally, from 9am with soccer and rugby clinics.
“It will be followed by a free barbecue lunch at Rotary Park about 12.30pm.
“If you can’t make the sports event, the four visiting sporting legends will be speaking at the Ignite Life Church, at 249 Finley Rd, from 6pm that night.”
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