Kidzwish founder and director Chris Beavan calls it “a meeting of giants.”
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“Michael’s 7ft tall and Leo has a tremendously big heart,” Beavan says to describe the friendship that’s been struck between Illawarra Hawks sky-scraper Michael Holyfield and Kidzwish ambassador Leo Lagana.
“They’ve struck up quite a good friendship since meeting earlier this year.
“It was not long after Michael arrived, Leo said hello and they got some photos and they’ve been friends ever since.
“We’re very honoured to be the Hawks charity partner. They are local, we are local and it’s a beautiful partnership.”
As part of that partnership, $2 from every ticket sold for Monday night’s blockbuster clash with arch-rivals Sydney will go directly to Kidzwish.
There will also be collection buckets and raffle prizes drawn at three-quarter time with the Kidzwish kids to form a guard of honour for the players as they make their way onto the floor.
“The Hawks are proud to be associated with Kidzwish and assist in any way we can to broaden the reach of the organisations message and fundraising opportunities,” club commercial manager Jason Saladino said.
“They do terrific work that makes a real difference to local children who are sick, disadvantaged or have disabilities.
“Monday night’s blockbuster against the Kings provides a great platform for the club to assist Kidzwish in their fundraising endeavours as they work towards building a brand new Kidzwish Place having outgrown their current premises.”