Former Sydney Swans captain Brett Kirk has been named as an ambassador for Down Syndrome NSW.
Kirk was formally inducted as one of eight ambassadors by NSW Premier Chris Minns in an event at Parliament House on Tuesday night, to celebrate the beginning of Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October.
Kirk, who played 241 games in the red and white including the 2005 Premiership, said he was proud to put his name behind the organisation which has been a Diversity Action Plan partner of the Swans for the past twelve months.
“I am so proud to be an ambassador for Down Syndrome NSW, inclusion and accessibility for all is extremely important to me.
“I hope to use my voice, effort, and time to help Down Syndrome NSW to create supportive communities and opportunities where everyone feels accepted and respected,” Kirk said.
The Sydney Swans and Down Syndrome NSW work together closely with members of the charity partner taking up roles at the recently opened Sydney Swans HQ.
Jake Earley and Ellen Hester have landed jobs with both the Swans AFL and AFLW football departments, with their roles ranging from helping the property stewards to running water for the players during training.
Kirk says the partnership is a meaningful one, which wholistically benefits everyone.
“It’s been great watching Jake and Ellen come in this season and be part of our men’s and women’s team. Opportunities like this in all organisations should be the norm for people with down syndrome not the exception.
“To see their growth and the joy they get by playing their role is what working in a team is all about. You only have to see the interactions between Jake and Ellen with our players and staff to know that we are better as a footy club,” Kirk said.
Down Syndrome NSW CEO, Emily Caska, said Kirk is a deserving ambassador.
“His playing career is certainly well known, but what stands Brett apart is his authentic commitment to inclusion.
“It was an honour to invite Brett to be an inaugural Ambassador for Down syndrome NSW. It an obvious choice, given his advocacy and support for the Diversity Action Plan.
“His leadership is also evident with the Swans players, who have gone over and above to connect with our loved ones with Down syndrome, following Brett’s lead,” Caska said.
