By Xavier Smerdon
PRIME Minister Julia Gillard was back kicking goals in Werribee last week as she was presented with a jumper and recognised as the patron for a community football team.
Members of WynBay Power, a football team that offers an outlet for people from disadvantaged backgrounds, and coach Senior Constable Scott Sutton, presented Ms Gillard with the number one jumper and a framed team photo. WynBay Power is part of RecLink Australia, a charitable organisation whose mission is to provide sporting, social and arts activities to enhance the lives of people experiencing troubled times.
Ms Gillard said it was important to see initiatives like RecLink providing support to members of her electorate.
“It’s tremendously important,” Ms Gillard told Star.
“It offers that sense of inclusion and community spirit that’s not only about engagement but also about building friendships.
The PM was quick however to assure the team that she would not be running onto the field with them any time soon. “I don’t really deserve the number one jumper,” she said.
“I don’t think I can really add anything in the playing department.” Coach and mentor for the team, Sen Const Sutton, said it was a great thrill for the team to be able to meet their patron.
“She’s someone with great prestige and who always aims high, which is really the same motto for the team, to always aim higher,” Sen Const Sutton said.
