Janko Gildenhuys (centre) with some of his U16 Wagga Crows teammates: Callum King, Lachlan Hardy, George Gibson, Henry Julian, (Janko Gildenhuys), Lachlan Maloney, Thomas Edward, Xander Hood and Digby Wallace. Photo: Marguerite McKinnon.
A group of Wagga rugby players have raised more than $1200 for a younger schoolmate battling a rare form of cancer after turning a Riverina gala day into a fundraising mission.
The Wagga Crows Under 16s collected donations at the Rugby Union Gala Day held at Jubilee Park over the weekend, carrying donation tins between matches and approaching players, families and supporters from across the region.
Leading the effort was 16-year-old Crows player Janko Gildenhuys, who said the team wanted to support 13-year-old Wagga boy Patrick Umbuck.
“We want to help a friend in need that’s got cancer. He’s 13 and he’s a Wagga boy,” Janko said.
U16 Crows Lachlan Maloney (r) holding the Charity Challenge donation tin with teammate Josh Wilson. Photo: Marguerite McKinnon.
Patrick, a Year 7 student at Mater Dei Catholic College, does not play rugby, but his situation struck a chord with the Crows players, many of whom attend the same school.
“We want to help support Pat and his family in their journey, in what Pat’s going through,” Janko said.
Under 16s coach Michael Kanck, who is also a teacher at Mater Dei, said the idea came directly from the players.
“Pat’s had some health challenges and it’s been a pretty big thing for Mater Dei Catholic College,” Mr Kanck said.
“It’s obviously had an impact on the Year 9 and 10 boys in our team and they wanted to do something to help Pat and his family in this struggle.
“Janko raised it with the boys and then they proposed it to the coaching staff. We fully support them in it.”
U16 Crows players Edward Smith, Josh Wilson and Lachlan Maloney seeking donations for their Charity Challenge to help Patrick Umbuck, 13, in his cancer fight. Photo: Jenny Warren.
Mr Kanck said the fundraiser reflected the character of the playing group.
“It shows the community-mindedness of the players and the care they have for those around them, so we’re really proud and we’ll support the boys’ efforts to support Pat the best we can,” he said.
Despite the challenge of raising cash donations in an increasingly cashless world, the players spent the day walking between grounds seeking contributions from spectators and fellow competitors.
Their efforts raised $1218.50, with all proceeds going towards helping Patrick and his family.
The fundraiser was one of several community efforts organised to support Patrick and his family as they navigate his cancer diagnosis, with supporters also rallying behind the “Putt for Pat” charity day at The Rock Golf Club.