Souths Lions is one of the biggest junior rugby league clubs in Newcastle. Its attraction to players and their families isn’t the drive to win premierships though, but the inclusive environment it provides for all players.
It has been the shared values of supporting the community and its people that has seen Greater Bank link with the club for the sixth consecutive season, and according to Assistant Secretary, Renae Carey, makes it a perfect partnership.
“Greater Bank has been a wonderful supporter of the Hunter community for many years now and we are so fortunate to share this philosophy and have them on board with Souths Juniors again in 2021,” Renae said.
“This year we’ve achieved record registration numbers with 430 players from Under 6 to Under 18 making up 30 teams. It’s something we are incredibly proud of.
“This growth in player numbers has been driven by the fact that we provide a safe, fun and inclusive environment for everyone.
“Playing a team sport can be so important and influential on a child’s formative years. It not only assists in a child’s physical and emotional development, but also teaches valued life skills that come with being part of a team environment, and forms friendships that can last a lifetime.
“Our aim at the club is to provide as may kids as we can the opportunity to experience this.”
As the club grows, so too do the costs to get the teams on the field each week. The support of sponsors, including Greater Bank, is vital to ensure this happens. It also ensures that they can continue to provide additional support to players such as mentoring programs.
Greater Bank Regional Manager, Karl McLean, visited a junior training session in early June to deliver a Greater Bank pack to each or the players. He was overwhelmed by the passion and enthusiasm of the players, coaches and supporters.
“It’s fantastic to support a club like Souths that provides so much for its players and their families. You don’t need to spend too much time with them to realise that they are not just a club, but a community,”
Karl McLean, Greater Bank Regional Manager
“It’s a community that we feel very much part of.
“Renae and the committee do an outstanding job getting all the teams on the park each week, but also providing additional supports to ensure that every child that wants to play gets that opportunity.
“I’m really proud that Greater Bank’s sponsorship is helping them to facilitate that support.”