Benefits go way beyond footy field

CAIRNS Wanderers Rugby Union Club coach Belford Lui says the Streets to Sports initiative is about more than just giving youth the skills to play footy.

Members of 10 rugby union and rugby league clubs will run through Cairns’ west, stopping at four locations between Mooroobool and Manunda to run footy clinics, to promote themselves as a home for troubled youth.

Lui said in his years as a coach, it had always been about making sure youth felt a sense of identity to encourage them to be leaders in their communities.

“Whether it’s rugby league, AFL or whatever ... a lot of the juniors I’ve coached growing up, and being ex-service myself, it gives you an identity,” he said.

“I think it all comes down to guidance in the formative years. No matter what code it is, it’s about bringing them through and getting them through to seniors. Then they’re set for life.”

Lui hoped to see a great turnout for the demonstration, which is expected to attract more than 200 participants.

Police will be there to help manage safety on the day.

“I think it’s a positive for the community and the sporting bodies involved,” Lui said.

“I think it highlights to me a bit of a struggle with the demographics of where we’re at.”

The run starts at Kangaroos Rugby League Club on February 15 at 5pm.