RESPECT was the theme of the day when members of the Newcastle Knights Football Club visited Tea Gardens Primary School last week.

Led by Game Development Officer Luke Lawrence, the players addressed a full assembly of children on the values the NRL is campaigning to promote both on the field and off.

The Knights 18-year-old Brendan O’Hagan and 20-year-old Keanu Dawson spoke to the children about how important it is to belong to a group, community and family.

‘’Respectful behaviours are important to ensure people feel welcome and have a sense of belonging and be part of a group,” Luke said.

Both Brendan and Keanu spoke candidly about what it takes to become part of a team.

18-year-old Brendan has been with the Knights club since his junior years.

“I love doing this stuff,” Brendon told News Of The Area.

It’s Keanu’s first season at the Knights, having moved to Australia from New Zealand and the Warriors.

“It’s a good change, it’s good to meet different people,” Keanu said.

“However the heat is a bit of an issue,” he added with a big smile.

The players also demonstrated the teams many forms of welcome, from handshakes, to high fives and hugs.

“The handshakes were the best part,” said schoolboy Korben Patteson.

High praise indeed as Korben is a Bulldogs fan.

Luke and the players plan on visiting around 200 schools in the Hunter Valley, Newcastle and Myall Coast areas over the coming year.

 

By Margie TIERNEY