Titans playmaker Brian Kelly and Titans Co-Captain Jamal Fogarty travelled down to Ballina Public School to surprise students from Kelly’s former school yesterday afternoon.
Titans players Kelly and Fogarty, alongside Titans legend Preston Campbell, NRL School to Work Officer Mel Lightburn and 2021 Indigenous Jersey artist Ash-Leigh Banks made it a memorable visit for the students who participated in cultural painting and activities.
Kelly, a proud Bundjalung man and Fogarty, a proud Mununjali man, worked with 2021 Indigenous Jersey artist Ash-Leigh Banks, in presenting a cultural art workshop for the students.
Brian Kelly says the trip to his former school was a special experience for him.
“Going back down to my old school and spending time with the students and staff was really special,” Kelly said.
“Having the chance to sit with them, participate in different activities and talk to them about football, culture and life was really memorable,” he said.
Titans Co-Captain Jamal Fogarty says being able to lead cultural activities at the school means a lot to him.
“Culture is such a big part of what we do at the Titans so to be able to come down and work with the kids on some cultural activities is really special,” Fogarty said.
“These visits are always really meaningful and have huge significance on us players,” he said.
Titans legend Preston Campbell says visiting students has always been a significant commitment for the Club.
“It’s always great to be able to visit schools and spend time with students and staff,” Campbell said.
“Visits like this play a huge part in what we have always done at the Titans and our commitment to the community.
“It means a lot for the players, staff and community to be able to sit down and answer questions, get involved and be there for the students,” he said.
Titans General Manager Community and Game Development Renee Cohen, says the school visits are an important part of the Titans commitment to the community.
“At the Titans, we are proud of our ongoing commitment with various schools on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers,” Cohen said.
“Being able to go back with Brian to his former school and see all the students so happy and excited to be with him, Preston and Ash-Leigh has been really memorable,” she said.
The tour was a part of the Titans Inspire Round this weekend where they take on the Manly Sea Eagles at Cbus Super Stadium
The round will also celebrate the work done by Titans Together in the community.
You can donate to Titans Together here.
