Kobe Malloy will lead his beloved Bulldogs out onto Etihad Stadium on Sunday, 15 June when the Western Bulldogs meet Collingwood for the annual Robert Rose Cup.
Kobe, 7, has an undiagnosed condition that has left him with very low muscle tone, ataxia and low levels of myelin in his brain, spine and nerves, limiting his mobility.
The theme of this year’s Robert Rose Cup is disability inclusion, which recognises the contribution and achievements of people of all abilities.
Robert Rose was the son of Collingwood legend Bob Rose and he himself played for both the Magpies and the Bulldogs before a car crash left him quadriplegic.
Slater & Gordon, which is representing Kobe’s family in a medical case, has selected him to be a mascot for the game. The law firm is naming rights sponsor of the match.
Slater & Gordon medical lawyer Anne Shortall said Kobe was the perfect choice to be a mascot for the game.
“Kobe is a delightful boy with an infectious smile. He’s such an inspiration and we are thrilled to be able to give him this opportunity,” Ms Shortall said.
Kobe’s father Bevan Malloy, a big Bulldogs fan himself, said the family was excited to be part of such an important match.
“Kobe is a happy little boy who continues to amaze us.
“As far as we know there is no one else in the world with his condition but that doesn’t stop him from having a go. He loves playing ball games and swimming and has settled into school really well,” Mr Malloy said.
Media Release supplied by Slater & Gordon
