Born and raised in Bankstown in Sydney’s west, O'hAilpin met and interacted with students in a series of workshops, including a culinary class to promote good nutrition, a hands-on environmental lesson in the Sydney Olympic Park wetlands a literacy workshop, mobile computer lab session and the opportunity to create videos using green screens, camera and sound equipment.
Growing up in a large family and moving to Ireland at a young age, O’hAilpin shared his own unique challenges during his early years and how he overcame these to achieve his dream of playing Australian Football.
GIANTS Community Engagement Manager Ali Faraj said the GIANTS were thrilled to join forces with the Sydney Olympic Park Authority (SOPA) to facilitate this unique education opportunity for students in western Sydney.
“These workshops provide exciting opportunities for young students in western Sydney to ensure they have the best possible chance for a bright future,” said Faraj.
“Our focus is to provide these students with aspirations for their future, to see them more engaged at school and interested in furthering their education.
“The program will take advantage of the great role models we have here at the GIANTS, just like Setanta, who can connect with these young kids and instill that belief in them.“
The educational program is being provided through a partnership between the GIANTS, SOPA, Benevolent Society, WestWords, University of Western Sydney, Save the Children and Web Video Productions.
