SUPPORTING LOCAL SPORT TO STRENGTHEN OUR COMMUNITY

Sport has the power to unite communities, foster camaraderie, and shape the lives of individuals. That’s why Wests Illawarra is proud to extend our unwavering support to local sporting teams, including Wests Cricket Club, Wests Devils Rugby League Football Club, Wests Netball, and Wests Hockey Club.

Through financial grants and unwavering support to Wests Illawarra Hockey Club, we are proud to play a role in developing the next generation of hockey stars and fostering a love for the game within our community. As Club President Rod Sheppard acknowledges, “Without the vital financial support from Wests Illawarra, our hockey club would face significant challenges.”  It is through this strong community partnership that we can provide the necessary resources, such as training equipment and playing shirts for the junior club, ensuring the success and growth of the Wests Illawarra Hockey Club.

Continuing our commitment to supporting local sporting clubs, we proudly turn the spotlight to the 99999Wests Illawarra Cricket Club, having been a supportive force for the club since its inception in 1950! With our financial contributions and dedicated support, we empower the cricket club to offer exceptional facilities, equipment, and coaching to their talented players. Club President Mark Waldock acknowledges the impact of our partnership, highlighting that the kits worn by all the players were made possible by our grant last year. He says: “Without Wests Illawarra’s support, the club would face additional challenges and resort to time-consuming fundraising efforts.”

Our partnership with the Wests Devils Rugby League Football Club is a testament to our commitment to community development both on and off the field. Thanks to our financial contributions, the Devils have been able to strengthen their community and provide better opportunities for their players. From providing playing kits to supplying new equipment, we have supported over 400 juniors in their club. The impact of our partnership is clear, as Reserves Coach Josh White affirms: “If we didn’t have support from West Illawarra, there wouldn’t be a West Football Club at all.”

For over 50 years, Wests Illawarra has been a steadfast supporter of the Wests Illawarra Netball Club, and our dedication remains steadfast! As Club Treasurer Kylie Judd reflects. “I have seen the generations coming back… from seeing the grandmother that used to stand here and now we are teaching their grandchildren.” This enduring connection exemplifies our commitment to the Wests Illawarra Netball Club. We understand the challenges faced by women’s sports when it comes to securing sponsorships, which is why we have been a dependable partner for the club. Our contributions have allowed the club to fund equipment, including balls and tags, supported representative players, and extended beyond financial assistance with offering the club for presentations.

We know how important these groups are in bringing our community together and creating opportunities for local young people to develop valuable skills both on and off the field. That’s why Wests contributed $250,387 to local sporting and social groups in the Illawarra community in the last financial year.

Together, we are #communitystrong!