Meet the father and daughter duo positively impacting young lives through PCYC NSW’s Nations of Origin

Mitchell Tierney grew up aware of PCYC’s positive impact on New South Wales communities, but it was when he joined PCYC Lake Illawarra as the Club Manager 7 years ago that he truly fell in love with the youth charity.

The annual ‘Nations of Origin’ at Western Sydney, his pride and joy – taking at least 40 young people from the Illawarra region to the four-day sporting and cultural event each year.

“The event’s impact on youth and community is immeasurable. It’s not about the sport or the tournament outcome, but about spending time with other teams, learning about each other’s cultures and forming lifelong friendships.” Said Mitchell.

It wasn’t long before Mitchell’s connection to PCYC turned into a family affair, his daughter Claire was 8 years old when she first set foot in her local Club, and she quickly became just as invested in Nations of Origin.

Claire first started volunteering as a ball girl, as she got older, she managed teams, and at last year’s event she represented the Dharawal Nation in the rugby league under the coaching whistle of her Dad – there’s also gymnastics, netball, and basketball competitions.

“I’ve formed many friendships through Nations of Origin, last year I played with a great group of girls, and I still speak to them daily – the First Nations culture side of it is also a highlight, it’s something that participants can bond over.” Said Claire.

The 16-year-old is eager to take to the field again this year, with the highly anticipated event returning to PCYC Hawkesbury and Whalan Reserve from July 14 to 17.

Community organisations are getting on board to support the cause, more than $25,000 has been raised to transport four Lake Illawarra teams to and from Nations of Origin this year – and that’s just one of 54 PCYC Clubs across New South Wales attending.

“It gives young people the opportunity to participate in representative sport that they otherwise may not have had access to – you witness them come out of their shell and build confidence, it’s priceless.” Said Mitchell.