Author: Family of League

11th November 2024.

The Chair of the Family of League Foundation, Helen Wood Grant, today announced the appointment of Darren Gocher to the position of CEO of the organisation, commencing 25 November 2024.

Chair Helen Wood Grant said, “On behalf of the Board, we could not be more delighted to appoint Darren as our new executive leader to take us into an even more successful future. He is an experienced CEO having worked across the sport, not-for-profit, media and finance sectors.

Our unique 22-year-old charity, exclusively serving the rugby league family, deserves the very highest standards of leadership and we have no doubt that Darren will provide that. His close ties to rugby league, his corporate and financial acumen, his experience in major events, digital strategy, volunteers and member-based organisations, stakeholder relationships and participation growth all offer Family of League opportunities for further growth. Darren will also be fulfilling the role of Company Secretary.”

Most recently CEO of Equestrian Australia, Darren was previously CEO of Athletics Australia and has held senior executive roles with News Corp, Penn Health and Yahoo!. Darren is a Chartered Accountant and began his career at KPMG. He has had a lifelong involvement with rugby league, including refereeing for 20 years, commencing in Junior League, Junior representative, NSW Rugby League and Super League competitions, before progressing to the NRL. He officiated as a Touch Judge in over 100 NRL games, State of Origins and test matches.

Darren currently sits on the Board of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia and was Team Manager at their recent successful Trans-Tasman test series in New Zealand.

“I am incredibly honoured to have the opportunity to lead such a wonderful organisation. The work that Family of League does in our community is inspirational and provides incredible support for those who need it. I am looking forward to working with the Board, executive team, dedicated committees, members and the broader community to continue their outstanding work. I have a long involvement with the game and as such have a passion for, and connection with, the purpose. The potential to grow and expand is enormous and I am excited to be able to contribute to the next phase of the journey” Mr Gocher said.

END.

Two players, in two different states, in two different stages of life, reach out to Family of League…

Having played both junior and senior footy in Southern NSW district teams, this young man had a commitment so strong he travelled two and a half hours each way to games. Dedicated to our sport, he was even preparing to coach his club’s women’s team.

However, recently he was involved in high-impact tackle. In great pain, he was taken off the field with scans later revealing seven separate injuries within his right knee. He had torn all the ligaments in his knee apart from his ACL, plus a series of broken bones in that same knee were also detected.

Originally a labourer, this gentleman had progressed into the ranks of a qualified business owner. However, this injury has greatly impacted that business and his ability to earn an income.

Due to the extent of his injuries, the fellow is unable to return to work until medically cleared to do so, placing him and his young family in significant financial distress. The Foundation will be assisting the family to help meet their rental and utility payments, and their immediate living expenses until he recovers and resumes work.

When times are tough.

A Queenslander who had previously played junior league in the South-East area, as well as senior teams in two other states, also spent time playing/coaching for our military. More recently, he was coaching junior and senior teams back in his home state.

In between that busy lifestyle, he has served on the board of his local team and even helps out in the canteen on footy days.

Similar to a lot of folk in today’s financial times, he and his wife are facing tough financial hardships. They have contacted Family of League in the hope we may be able to provide financial support for their family while they try and get back on their feet.

Their one and only car, which they use to transport their grandchildren to and from school, is unfortunately starting to breakdown as they have not had the funds to service it for four years.

Our foundation has provided support payments of good will to relieve some of their financial pressure, while they are navigating themselves through this financial hardship. Our support also includes funding to service their car and vouchers to cover daily expenses of food and fuel.

These two stories are only a few of the many we have assisted in our footy community this month.

Written by Lance Henry

Treasurer, FOL Central Coast Committee.

On a crisp Sunday morning, the same day of the 2024 Rugby League Grand Final, 128 keen golfers teed off at Shelly Beach Golf Club… an outstanding location on NSW’s Central Coast. While full of spirited ambience for their fellow course mates, it was obvious to everyone that all steely eyes were focused on capturing the prize of the day: winning the Allan Foskett Memorial Trophy.

In recognition of the NRL events that were destined to be played out later in the evening, all players were requested to proudly wear the colours of the rugby league team throughout the day.

The Allan Foskett Memorial trophy is in memory of Allan, who passed away in late 2022. ‘Alby’ was a well-known rugby league identify on the Central Coast, who progressed from a local coach to a NSW Country selector in 1982, as well as a selector for the NSW State of Origin squad in that same year.

Established over 60 years ago. the ‘Early Morning Moaners’ is a social club within the Shelly Beach Golf Club. By way of supporting those rugby league people in need of a helping hand, the Moaners agreed that all funds raised on the day were donated to the Family of League Foundation.

In many ways the Early Morning Moaners Grand Final event epitomises the Family of League’s core values, as their focus is to assist those in need within our footy community.

The Family of League appreciates the Moaners continued support and their generous donation from monies raised on the day.

Photo (L-R) Early Morning Moaners: Carlo Chiofalo, Paul McPhail and Jock Morris.

Aside from mountains of paperwork to fill out, hours of wellbeing interviews and, basically, making good things happen in our footy community, we asked National Wellbeing Lead, Chloe Minehan, to share some of the things she has been doing lately. Here are some brief points:

Tyler Crossley Wellbeing Visit

• Friday July 5^th, we attended the Children’s Hospital at Westmead to visit 7-year-old Tyler, who has just been diagnosed with leukemia, and were joined by his mum, Bianca, and grandfather, David
• Tyler plays rugby league for Picton Magpies in their under-8s teams
• We presented Tyler with two Parramatta Eels Jerseys. One signed by the whole team, a parramatta hat and a parramatta scarf. We could not wipe the smile of Tyler’s face
• Tyler’s grandfather, David, reached out to us to see if there was anything we could do to lift his spirits, as David used to be very involved with Men of League in the past
• The day was a very rewarding and heartfelt experience which proved what we do helps those in many ways.

Matty Johns Footy Show

• Sunday 7^th July – Joined some of our Family of League team in the show’s audience.
• Our CEO, Stephen, and National Events Manager, Doug, had the opportunity to go on camera and thank everyone for coming and also shared information about our Foundation as well as the Crazy Sock fundraising campaign
• All up, an amazing experience – just being in the same room as the MJFS crew was amazing and the atmosphere was incredible.

Illawarra Junior and Senior Clubs Meetings

• On Monday July 22 and Monday 19^th August, myself and Ray Beacroft (Illawarra Wellbeing Officer) were invited by Head of Illawarra Football, Brent Pigram, to present a talk to the junior/senior clubs of the Illawarra region
• We were given 15 minutes, in which Ray and myself spoke in front of all the clubs
• We handed out flyers which contained information about who we are and what we do, in regard to our wellbeing programs and support we provide
• We explained in detail, discussing grants and how an individual may be able to contact us who may need support
• Ray spoke about the upcoming Family of League events and how the majority of our funding comes through fundraising. Ray spoke about how he is here to help and the importance of reaching out to him
• There were many positive outcomes from these meetings – with referrals from clubs for potential wellbeing cases.

Illawarra Bowls Day

• Friday 26^th July – attended the Illawarra Bowls Day at Warrilla Bowls and Recreation Club
• Over 120 individuals in attendance, which was a breakfast and bowls event followed by lunch upstairs – 140 filled the room to enjoy a wonderful meal
• I assisted the committee with selling raffle tickets and was amazed by the amount of support and tickets sold
• I was also given the opportunity to make a speech on behalf of the Foundation, and spoke about who we are and what we have been doing in the wellbeing space… including the support we have provided to the Illawarra Region through the help of the committee.

Minchinbury Jets ‘Back to Jets’ Day – 30 Year Celebration

• Saturday 27^th July – Family of League were invited to setup a tent at one of our Corporate Members 30-year Celebration: The Minchinbury Jets Rugby League Club
• That morning, myself, Luke Bellamy, Doug and Jack attended the tent at their local club ground where we signed up new members, sold raffle tickets and made ourselves known to the local community
• Members of the community came up and asked us questions and asked how we may be able to offer assistance
• This weekend was also our Crazy Sock round, so we observed teams wearing Crazy Socks from a variety of clubs.

Central Coast KOC

• Tuesday 30^th July – Myself and Grace attended the Central Coast KOC (Kick Off Club) at the Grand Hotel, Wyong. This was the Central Coast committee’s first KOC… and what a turnout!
• Before the KOC started, the annual AGM was held where I had the chance to present a short speech explaining how the wellbeing activities have been going and the annual wellbeing spend so far this year
• A new president was elected, and it was good to meet all the new committee members  face to face
• Following this, we enjoyed dinner/drinks and Greg Florimo (Ex North’s player) was then introduced as the guest speaker. He spoke about his past playing days/coaching career, and his current activities with the North Sydney Bears as their wellbeing manager.

Penrith Committee Sponsor Meeting

• Friday 16^th August – Myself, Doug and Col Barton (President of Penrith Committee) met with Zenn Ability CEO and Founder, Laurie and Daniel Slade, to discuss their potential onboarding as corporate members
• Laurie and Daniel run Zenn Ability, which is a disability support company, and are heavily involved with the Penrith Panthers. The work this company does is amazing and I walked away from this meeting feeling overjoyed with the support they want to provide to us… and what they do for members within the community
• We concluded the meeting by also inviting them to join us at our upcoming National Lunch at Canterbury Leagues Club.

The Chair of the Family of League Foundation Helen Wood Grant today announced the
retirement of its CEO Stephen Lowndes.

“Stephen has decided it is time to retire to be with family, to travel and explore some pet
projects. When he began his role over 6 years ago, we were delighted to acquire the
services of such a successful CEO/Company Secretary from the health sector and we have
benefited from his experience and insights ever since. During his time with us Stephen has
overseen many changes that will remain his legacy ongoing, not the least of which was
leading the organisation through the COVID years. We are extremely fortunate that he will
remain until our search for his successor is complete to ensure an ordered and comprehensive handover. We have gone to market today for our new CEO with a closing date for applications of 30 September.”

Mr Lowndes said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here – so much so that I have stayed
a bit longer than I originally envisaged when I left my previous role. I am immensely proud to be leaving this great charitable organisation in good shape to continue doing what it does so well – helping those in need at a time and in a way that is so impactful to them. It has been an absolute privilege to work with so many committed and passionate volunteers and staff, dedicated to the cause. I have particularly appreciated my strong working relationship with the Chair and the Board, and I will continue to assist the Board as they might require.

Most particularly I am also looking forward to more family time, and a bit more travel. Family of League is a unique charity within Australia’s sporting landscape, and I am extremely privileged to have had the opportunity to lead it through some challenging times. I shall stay connected to it long after my departure.”

ENDS

The Family of League Board, Committee volunteers and members join the rest of the rugby league community in applauding and celebrating the announcement of Ron Coote AM as our 14^th Immortal.  Ron’s stellar sporting career in rugby league is matched only by his tireless devotion to the welfare of the rugby league family he loves so much.  The greatest expression of that is his co-founding of the Men of League Foundation in 2002, his Chairmanship of the Foundation for its first 15 years and his Honorary President role of Family of League Foundation. 

On the field he was mesmerising. His personal qualities meant that, while his speed in attack with ball in hand set him apart, his work off the ball terrorising the opposition with textbook lower leg tackles that stopped them in their tracks, spoke to his work ethic.  Playing both lock and second row, his list of representative honours is remarkable.  He also made a huge impact on club football, playing in nine grand finals in the space of 11 seasons with Souths and Easts. He won four titles with Souths, two with Easts, and became the first player to appear in 100 premiership matches for two separate clubs.

In his family life he built a tight team with his wife Robyn who, with his daughters Donna and Natalie, his four grandchildren and great grandchildren, are his pride and joy. This teamwork extended to their McDonalds businesses which continue to grow as a family enterprise.  

We salute you Ron. You were the player other players wanted to be on the field with and who coaches wanted to coach. We have always spoken of you as Family of League’s Immortal and we are so happy you now join the ranks of the game’s Immortals. You are simply without equal as a person of pure talent, leadership, selflessness and integrity in the game.

– Helen Wood Grant, Family of League Chair.

The National Rugby League (NRL) will formally induct the first ever female players into the NRL Hall of Fame.

The following players have been confirmed as featuring in the Hall of Fame in the 2024 Class:
• Katrina Fanning
• Natalie Dwyer
• Tarsha Gale
• Veronica White
• Karyn Murphy
• Tahnee Norris

“This is an historic moment for the game – our first ever female players inducted into rugby league’s highest honour: the Hall of Fame,” ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM said.
“This class includes some of the great trailblazers of women’s Rugby League. They all significantly helped to put women’s Rugby League is in the strong position it is today.”

The list of achievements of the inductees includes:
• Katrina Fanning, ACT Australian of the Year in 2020, played 24 Tests for the Jillaroos, including the inaugural Test against New Zealand in 1995. The Canberra women’s Premiership is named the Katrina Fanning Shield in her honour.
• Natalie Dwyer played 26 Tests for the Jillaroos, five as captain – including captaining the Jillaroos in their inaugural Test against New Zealand in 1995.
• Tarsha Gale played 15 Tests for the Jillaroos, including 11 as captain, and was halfback in the inaugural Jillaroos Test against New Zealand in 1995. The NSW Women’s Under-19s premiership is named the Tarsha Gale Cup in her honour
• Karyn Murphy played 28 Tests for the Jillaroos, including 18 as captain, and was part of four World Cup campaigns (2000, 2003, 2008 and 2013). The NRLW grand final player of the match is named the Karyn Murphy Medal in her honour.
• Tahnee Norris played a record 33 Tests for the Jillaroos, including seven as captain. She played in four World Cup campaigns (2000, 2003, 2008 and 2013).
• Veronica White played 17 Tests for the Jillaroos, while the NRLW Community award was named the Veronica White Medal in her honour from 2019

“It’s a privilege to see the game take this step and recognise female players in the National Rugby League Hall of Fame,” Mr V’landys said.
“Each of the inductees has played a significant role in the growth of the women’s game, and the game itself. They are extraordinary individuals who worked extremely hard to put women’s Rugby League on the map.

“Women’s Rugby League is as popular as it is now because of the efforts of the inductees.
“Each of them has also continued to play a significant role in the game after retirement.
“With the NRLW and women’s game flying, it is critical as a game that we pay tribute to those who have dug the well.
“These players will be forever known as being part of the first group of female players to join the NRL Hall of Fame.”

The formal inductions will be made in a special ceremony on Wednesday, August 21 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

– NRL social media

This month, a young man, who has made a significant contribution to the Rugby League Community having played junior and senior footy, and still runs on to the paddock has encountered financial difficulties.

Although he works as an apprentice tradie, as a single dad co-sharing his child, he has been overwhelmed with the cost of raising his child and paying for the usual medical, clothing and child-raising accessories required.

As a result of the relationship not working out, this fellow has also incurred substantial debt on top of his current fiscal plight. All he needs is a financial break where he can be assisted with paying his pressing bills, thereby releasing the pressure while allowing him time to prep for his fathering future. Family of League are currently assisting him with that requirement.

Waiting for an answer

Another fellow in his early 20s, who has over 10 years of playing footy – initially in his early years then right up to the senior grade – has recently hit a physical and financial wall.

A casual worker who endures hard physical work at most times of the day, he has been suffering from persistent internal injuries. The pain has required substantial medical appointments and he is currently waiting to undergo an MRI scan. The fallout of his discomfort has reduced his ability to maintain casual work.

While his injuries may have initiated from his on-field activities which might be covered by insurance, the impact his limited health is having on earning an income is not.

There are also substantial time delays in defining this gentleman’s health concern, which further adds to his, and his partner’s, financial dilemma.

Akin to the previous situation, this couple’s situation requires financial intervention… to pay current bills and allow breathing space for medical resolution. Allowing this young worker to become healthy and happily return to work and pay his way.

Once more, in appreciation of his long-term involvement in the game we all love, Family of League are stepping in with support.

Having one’s leg (and lifestyle) swept aside

A current player in a seniors’ team has also had his health impacted by on-field activities. Aged around 30, and still feeling young at heart, one of his legs has decided otherwise.

Up until this incident he has been employed, however his limited mobility has left him unable to earn an income. Off work for quite some time, medical practitioners advise it may be several more months until he can be fit enough to return to work.

As per our charter, medical costs associated with on-field injuries are not covered by Family of League Foundation grants. However, in the instance that an injury places an individual/family into financial hardship, then assistance with living costs may be considered.

Acknowledging this weekend’s Women in League Round, Family of League’s Chair, Helen Wood Grant, salutes this fantastic event.

(The following was written by one of our wonderful wellbeing recipients)

On January 8th, our lives took an unexpected turn. At 12:30 PM, (my husband) Russell suffered a severe accident, falling off a ladder while giving a mate a hand. In an instant, our world was turned upside down. Russell sustained a nasty head injury, broken ribs 2-9 with multiple fractures on his right side, adding up to 12 in total, a punctured lung, a pneumothorax, a hemothorax and a broken left hand. Weekly X-rays to monitor his pneumothorax and hemothorax, and while his recovery has been slow, each small victory is celebrated. He’s progressing well, and every step forward is a testament to his strength and resilience.

Our son Tristan, who is also involved in Rugby League and has played U21s for Norths Devils over the past three years, was onsite with Russell. He heard a noise behind him and found his father unconscious, lying in a pool of blood from his head wound. The ambulance was called immediately, and Russell was rushed to St. Vincent’s Hospital, where he was admitted to the ICU. To add to our difficulties, Russell’s COVID test came back positive, restricting visitors to just me (his wife Sam).

The early days were terrifying. Russell was in critical condition, and the ICU protocols meant our children and extended family couldn’t visit. Yet, every day, we witnessed a miracle. Russell’s condition gradually improved, and soon he was discharged and came back home to Brisbane, where further testing revealed his injuries were worse than initially thought. He was readmitted for another week of treatment. Despite these challenges, we were grateful for every small step forward and that he was with us and could heal.

Reflecting on the accident, it’s incredible how something as routine as climbing a ladder can lead to such profound consequences. Russell has been in the construction industry for over 30 years and has played footy since he was six. He had never broken a bone before this. Climbing ladders was second nature to him. This incident has served as a stark reminder of life’s fragility and unpredictability.

Through this ordeal, we have been overwhelmed by the support we’ve received. Tristan’s friends stepped in to help with work for our friends, and our amazing network of family and friends rallied around us.

One organisation, in particular, has been our lifeline: The Family of League. Their unwavering support has been remarkable. From food and fuel vouchers to assistance with paying bills, they have been there for us every step of the way.

Russell’s healing journey continues, with at least three more months of recovery expected after his next operation. The road ahead is daunting, and there are moments of uncertainty, but our faith remains strong. We believe in Russell’s ability to heal and know that, with time and support, he will make a full recovery.

The accident has not only been a physical battle but an emotional and financial one as well. Living week to week has been our reality for a long time, and this incident has intensified our struggles. However, the generosity and kindness of our community have been our lifeline. The GoFundMe page set up by Damien Matthews, and the countless messages of support have made an immeasurable difference.

We had the honour of sharing our story at The Family of League’s May event hosted by the Redcliffe Dolphins. The genuine support and kindness we encountered there were overwhelming. It was a humbling experience to be surrounded by people who truly cared about our journey and wanted to help. We hope our story can bring hope to others facing similar traumas and encourage those who can, to please support this incredible organisation.

I want to highlight the role that The Family of League has played for us. Their support has been instrumental in keeping us afloat during this turbulent time. Nothing could prepare us for the challenges we faced in the past year – from the illness and passing of Russell’s father to my mother’s health struggles. Russell’s accident compounded our difficulties, leaving us without income for six months so far.

Their fundraising efforts, luncheons, and golf days are vital in supporting families like ours who are facing unimaginable hardships. If you can, please support their initiatives. Your contributions make a significant impact on families of League that are in need.

We just wanted to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has helped us along this journey. Your kindness, prayers, messages, and support have had a profound impact on our lives. We are incredibly blessed to have such an amazing community. We will never forget the love and generosity we’ve received.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are blessed beyond measure.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Sam, Russell and Family ❤️‍