Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Friday, 21 February, 2014. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Sporting Chance program launched

Posted on Friday 21st of February, 2014,

Greater Shepparton City Council together with FamilyCare is offering residents the chance to become more involved in sport through the Sporting Chance scholarships program. The program assists residents to actively participate in sport and recreation, regardless of their means, through access to small grants to the value of $250 per applicant.

Two categories are available:

Children and young people between the ages of five and 18 or who are still full time at secondary school
Adults over 18 who are no longer at secondary school. For adults, an element of volunteering is required to be eligible for the scholarship.

The Sporting Chance program supports Greater Shepparton residents to become more active in sporting clubs and the local community.

Mayor Jenny Houlihan said “this is an excellent opportunity for people finding it a little difficult to afford to play sport. Playing sport is great for people within the community and this is another way where we can assist residents”.

Residents were able to meet program Ambassadors Melbourne Vixen, Geva Mentor, and local AFL player, Shannon Byrnes, and enjoy fun filled games and activities today in the Maude Street Mall during the Summer City market.

Netball Victoria, Melbourne Vixens, Valley Sport Goulburn Valley Sports Assembly, Melbourne Heart and the Community Fund Goulburn Valley are all behind children being able to play sport. Residents may apply for scholarships up to the value of $250 per applicant. The funding can be provided for club membership, participation fees, equipment and uniforms. FamilyCare will manage the allocation of the funding designated to clubs, business or organisations.

Two rounds of scholarships will be offered in 2014. The first round closes 11^th April, 2014 and the second round closes 10^th October, 2014. Applications can be submitted at any time and will be assessed after the closing dates. The applications will be assessed by an independent panel. For more information contact FamilyCare 1300 854 944.