What a special moment this was! For the fifth year the TFH Gold Coast Titans partnered with Down Syndrome Queensland to provide the opportunity for 35 children to take centre stage at CBUS Super Stadium.
The Gold Coast Titans have again partnered with Down Syndrome Queensland (DSQ) to raise awareness for the volunteer based organisation to showcase the amazing work they do for the community.
The Round 12 NRL game between the Titans and Knights witnessed twenty-five children run onto Cbus Super Stadium alongside their idols as 200 of their nearest and dearest cheered them on from the sidelines.
A further ten young adults formed a guard of honour, bearing flags as they welcomed both teams onto the field.
Fox Sports' Lara Pitt was at the game to witness the special moment. "The smiles on their faces says it all really, the Titans have been doing this now for five years, it has a lasting impact, it shows what rugby league can do for people in the community."
Marcus Hay joined his hero and Titans Captain Ryan James for the coin toss, walking away with a ginormous grin and memories to last him a lifetime.
"The community is really important to the Titans, so this day is just as rewarding for us as players as it is for the children, it's important to us that they get to experience the excitement and atmosphere and feel like they belong", said James.
DSAQ staff members in attendance also spoke highly of the annual event, "DSQ were thrilled to be a part of the Gold Coast Titans Charity Match again this year – wonderful that both the Titans and the Knights work together on this heart warming experience!"
"It truly was a great day had by all and a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness of the interests of people with Down syndrome and celebrate their place in the local community."
"A big thank you to the Gold Coast Titans for their ongoing support!"
Titans fans Kerrie Whitley and Helen Faithful praised the wonderful work of the Titans Community Foundation and players online.
"What a wonderful tradition these footballers are keeping going - a few minutes out of their busy lives - to make years of happy memories for these beautiful children."
"How good is that - great for the kids - something special - such a good deed, good on you TITANS."
