Close to 250 students from seven high schools across Sydney, including four Intensive English Centres, came together today to celebrate the completion of the NRL’s current ‘In League In Harmony’ program, a six-week program conducted throughout term two.
Students celebrated the occasion by participating in a range of activities, including a Harmony Walk, wheelchair and touch rugby league matches, as well as receiving certificates for completing the ‘In League In Harmony’ program.
Former NRL player Joe Galuvao attended the day, along with NSW Minister for Multiculturalism, Ray Williams and NRL General Manager of Community Programs, Ellen Beale.
NRL Head of Government and Community Relations, Jaymes Boland Rudder said the program had progressed in impact and exposure over several years.
"The message of social cohesion and recognition amongst multiple nationalities and communities is an important one," Mr Boland-Rudder said.
"The In League In Harmony program, through the spirit of rugby league, continues to unify hundreds of students throughout Sydney and beyond each school term and as a game, we are determined to continue to promote and empower young people to be positive advocates within their own communities and others."
"Our Government is committed to maintaining social cohesion and to safeguarding our peaceful way of life," added Minister Williams.
"We are proud to work with the NRL to promote harmony and the code is a positive force in Western Sydney communities.
"Sport is beyond what's happening on the playing field; it is about what it can give back to communities."
The NRL’s ‘In League In Harmony’ community program is a six-week program which aims to promote social cohesion amongst communities.
Students who participated in the program and attended the gala day came from the following schools:
- Casula High School
- Bonnyrigg High School
- Narara Valley High School
- Fairfield High School (IEC)
- Evans High School (IEC)
- Marrickville High School (IEC)
- Lurnea High School (IEC)
