The Greater Western Sydney GIANTS will play Collingwood in Round 18’s inaugural Building Australia Game at SKODA Stadium on Sunday 28 July.
Sponsored by Cbus Property, the match will celebrate the trades men and trades women that have helped to ‘build Australia’.
The game is one that is close to Head Coach Kevin Sheedy’s heart.
An Australian Apprenticeships Ambassador, Kevin is passionate about young people having a skill for life, especially ensuring his players get the skills they need off the field for a career after footy.
“It’s the tradies that work hard every day to build us a country with everything we need to live well, and enjoy life,” said Sheedy.
“A perfect example is SKODA Stadium. Building something like that, it brings a community together.
The builders, plumbers, carpenters, painters, electricians – they’re the ones that make this possible. We need to celebrate that.”
Sheedy completed a plumbing apprenticeship and working as a plumber for a number of years when he started his career in professional football.
“We need more tradies to keep this country going – and there is a real shortage at the moment,” said Sheedy.
“It’s hard work, but financially, it’s rewarding. Seeing something you made, you built, that’s also rewarding.
“Having a trade means you get to work outdoors, work in teams, work independently, and many start their own businesses.
“The sky’s the limit with having a trade behind you.”
Sheedy stars in a new video about the benefits of Australian Apprenticeships, now featuring on GIANTS TV.
He has this advice for Australians considering taking up a trade.
“Get out there, find an employer and get your training. Completing an Australian Apprenticeship and having my qualification was one of the best things I ever did. The skills I learned set me up for life,” he said.
If you are interested in an Australian Apprenticeship and how to get started, contact your local Australian Apprenticeships Centre, visit www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au, or call the Australian Apprenticeships referral line on 13 38 73 to find Australian Apprenticeships Centres in your region.
