A FEW decades ago, a young man emerged with an alternative to what was being offered to those seeking solace from the ‘dark side’.
That young man was Peter Cullen AM – founder of Reclink, and the alternative he offered – to addiction of any kind – was playing community sport.
Specifically, kicking an Aussie Rules football around.
“…for all its popularity, cultural significance and media coverage, the most impactful role of footy is largely hidden from view. This role is Reclink footy – footy for people experiencing social disadvantage,” Peter said.
As a national non-profit, Reclink Australia provides evidence-based community sport, art and sports recreation programs to disadvantaged Australians to create socially inclusive, life-changing opportunities.
The Power of a Football is a riveting collection of over 30 personal stories from all walks of life in the 30 years of Reclink footy.
The big names, the unsung heroes and everyone in between – from the early days of its grassroots in St Kilda, to the football league it is today around Australia.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “…full of stories of redemption, hope, pushing doors open for people and bringing out the very finest qualities of our communities. Put them together and they are a force for good. I see in them the very best of us. As you read the stories in this book, I’m confident you’ll see the same.”
Throughout these stories are recurrent themes of passion, inspiration, confidence and the transformative nature of connection and purpose which AFL football provides.
Published by WestWords Books, you can purchase The Power of a Football for $39.95 from reclink.org/book
70 percent of profits from the sale of the book go direct to Reclink Australia.
