Twenty-five young men from across Queensland have enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime experience, bonding with the Australian Kangaroos rugby league team during an afternoon of team building.
The event was a collaboration with the Kangaroos, PCYC Queensland and Queensland Police Service (QPS), to foster mentorship, build relationships and inspire.
The boys were selected through their involvement with PCYC's youth development programs and for their potential as young leaders.
Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga said the players, who are competing in the Pacific Nations tournament this week, drew as much inspiration from the day as the young men did.
"The players know who they represent - and that's these boys and their communities.
"It's a privilege to spend time with impressive young people like this and see what the Kangaroos jersey means to them.
"The Kangaroos represent Australian values like mateship and there were plenty of new mates and new connections found today.
"The team had a great time with the kids and gained as much as they gave.
The 25 young people were selected from PCYCs across the state including Bundaberg, Sunshine Coast, Deception Bay, Caboolture, Palm Island, Woorabinda, and Rockhampton - due to their commitment to their communities and strength of character.
They were accompanied by their club's Youth and Community Program Manager, QPS officers who run PCYC's youth development programs.
PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz said all of the young people had been recognised for their involvement in their communities, and being role models to younger children.
"They, like all young men, really benefit from having meaningful interactions with positive role models, and spending time with footy legends they've only seen before on TV is something they will always remember," he said.
"We are really grateful to the Kangaroos for today, and for the positive impact they will have on these young people.
"Through all of our programs, we know the lasting benefits of this kind of mentoring and skill building - learning about discipline, dedication and hard work can broaden perspectives and give them a sense of possibility that they will take home with them."
QPS Community Safety Group Superintendent Rob Fleischer said QPS is committed to working with partners to take initiative in the early intervention and engagement space, to help change the lives of young people.
"There's no doubt that these young men will head home and be the talk of the town, sharing their experience of mentorship with some of their footy idols," Superintendent Fleischer said.
"An experience like this can change the trajectory of a young person's life, simply by boosting confidence, self-reflection and provoking motivation to be the best individual they can be for their community.
"I can't thank PCYC and the Kangaroos enough for working with us to make this day happen, it's partnerships like this which have a real impact, and I know we all felt a sense of pride watching that play out in real time during this event."
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