F E AT U R E
Public Purpose beyond BGS Angus Bale – Year 8 I have been immensely fortunate to have the opportunity to try many sports and cocurricular activities. From rugby clubs to music groups and tennis lessons, I have been able to experience so much. Through participating in these activities, I have achieved not only physical goals, but made friends and developed a sense of achievement. As I grow older and am exposed to more of the world, I have developed an understanding that not everyone has access to these opportunities. I believe every child should have the opportunity to play sport to help develop their own sense of self. We are fortunate in Australia to have a very high standard of living. A few years ago, my family travelled to Kenya and I saw how poorer communities live. When I returned to Australia, it was obvious that we have so much stuff and they have so little. Some children had nothing. I wanted to do something about it – I wanted to help the children who were the same age as me by providing them
with sporting equipment. Through Instagram, I connected with TennisAid. With tennis being a passion of mine, I thought this would be the perfect way to help. My idea involved collecting tennis shoes and equipment no longer needed by children in Australia to send to TennisAid who then distribute to children in developing countries. The impact of the initiative has not only benefited the receiving communities, it has also benefited boys at BGS. It raised awareness of our privilege and our ability to help others. It started discussions across different age groups and prompted conversations about countries that are not as developed as Australia. It was satisfying to bring others with me on this journey. We have had an impact. Every racquet and every pair of shoes that we no longer need will give someone else a chance to enjoy a sport and perhaps have a better day because of our actions as a group. This project is something I will continue. We will be collecting every year through BGS Tennis.
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