A Positive Start: How Fit for Life Set Laini on a New Path

Amber Griffin

Since 14-year-old Laini joined the Fit for Life program at PCYC Eastern Suburbs, she has had a positive morning routine and no longer finds herself getting into trouble.

“I’ve been more active; I can prioritise physical activity and PCYC instead of doing other stuff. I’ll always be up to good here, the staff give me a lot of advice and if I’m in trouble they help me out,” said Laini.

“They don’t have to pick us up every morning, they don’t have to make us breakfast, they don’t have to provide us with activities, they don’t have to drop us to school, but they still do it and they care.”

Club Manager Tara Coleman said a unique element of the Fit for Life program is working alongside NSW Police Youth Engagement Officers to mentor participants, encouraging positive community contributions and educational engagement.

“We have many kids in our cohort that are struggling with school attendance, but the positive side is now they’re starting to go back to school,” said Tara.

“Participants come here from when they’re maybe 12, and then I see them as a 17-year-old graduating high school. That’s something that I’m really proud of.”

Laini says that having Fit for Life in her routine before school encourages her to wake up in the morning.

“PCYC is like a little family, I’ll be friends with these people for the rest of my life. You learn different stuff that you’re going to keep in mind with you for life. The staff take time for each person and care for everyone, make sure everyone’s getting active, fitting in, and they know us all best.”

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A Positive Start: How Fit for Life Set Laini on a New Path

Amber Griffin

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