In an AFL first, this unique partnership will see the Bulldogs and Magpies come together at Sunday’s round 12 clash at Etihad Stadium to highlight the contribution of people with a disability to our community.
In partnership with Slater & Gordon, the two clubs - who have a proven record in supporting people with a disability - are working to make the match an annual event celebrating people with a disability and highlighting the importance of inclusion and respect.
Slater & Gordon is the naming rights sponsor for the game with the match day theme tying in with the organisation’s strong work in support of people with disabilities.
The Bulldogs and Magpies will be playing for the Robert Rose Cup proudly supported by Slater & Gordon in recognition of the contribution made by people with disabilities and their families to our community.
Western Bulldogs Chief Executive Simon Garlick said that this weekend’s game was about recognising the achievements of, and showing support for, people with a disability.
“We want to see people with a disability included equally everywhere in the community and what better way is there to do this on a Sunday afternoon than at the footy.”
A range of match day activities will take place during and around the Sunday twilight fixture at Etihad Stadium, including:
President for the Day - Lynette Rowe
Lynette Rowe is a Bulldogs member and friend of President Peter Gordon and will step into Mr Gordon’s shoes as Western Bulldogs President on match day. Ms Rowe is a Thalidomide survivor who was born without limbs as a result of the morning sickness drug Thalidomide.
Independence Australia Fundraising
A small army of volunteers from Slater & Gordon will hit the concourse of Etihad Stadium on match day raising money for Independence Australia - a not-for-profit organisation supporting people with a disability or other physical need to regain, retain and extend their independence.
Western Bulldogs Junior Mascot - Venice Kowalczy
Nine-year old Venice Kowalczyk will take to the ground with the Western Bulldogs. Venice is an inspirational young character from Burwood, who lost both her feet and left hand after the hospital missed an early diagnosis of meningococcal disease at nine months of age. None of that has stopped Venice from embracing an active life, she’s a keen swimmer and enjoys basketball. Venice’s story captures the essence of Sunday’s match – rising above adversity to lead a full and active life.
Western Bulldogs’ Cheer Squad Banner
A group from the Western Bulldogs' disability education program will assist the Club’s cheer squad to construct this week’s match day banner.
Coin Toss - Lucas Dumbrell
Tossing the coin for the match is race driver Lucas Dumbrell who is one of the Robert Rose Cup ambassadors. Mr Dumbrell was left a quadriplegic after a racing accident in 2008 and now runs his own racing team Lucas Dumbrell Motorsport.
Leading law firm Slater & Gordon are passionate advocates for people who have been disadvantaged by injury and disability, striving to ensure that a person who is injured or suffers a disabling illness, receives the care and support they need to live a decent life.
For more information about Slater & Gordon visit www.slatergordon.com.au
