UPDATE – 16 SEPTEMBER 2026

Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our community, Samuel has reached and surpassed his original $1,300 fundraising goal!

We are incredibly grateful to every person and local business that has donated, shared the campaign or offered encouragement.

The original goal was set to help cover accommodation, travel and meals associated with the Victorian Footy Draft Camp. With the full costs surrounding the trip and Samuel’s continuing development in mind, we have now set a transparent stretch goal of $2,000.

Every additional donation will help with remaining camp and travel expenses, meals, recovery needs, training and future athlete-development opportunities.

Even $1 makes a difference. Thank you for continuing to back Samuel and support his football journey.

This fundraiser has been created to help this dedicated 14-year-old footballer attend an important development opportunity.

Samuel plays bottom-age Under 15s for the Sunbury Kangaroos. In 2026, he won the club’s Best and Fairest with an extraordinary 151 votes—the highest number of votes ever recorded at the club.

He was also presented with the Community Contributor Award, recognising his outstanding effort, commitment and the meaningful contribution he makes both on and off the field.

Samuel recently celebrated his 50th game, running through a special banner proudly designed and organised by his mum. He was also invited to attend the RDFNL Junior Presentation Night in August.

Samuel’s coach, Aydan Faulds, has played an important role in supporting his development as both a footballer and a young person.

Samuel has also applied for an academic sports program because he hopes to pursue a future in sport, health and nutrition while continuing to work towards his dream of becoming an AFL player. His application is supported by references from his football coach and PE teacher.

Samuel has now secured his place at the Victorian Footy Draft Camp at Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds campus from 28–30 September.

Melissa has already paid the $599 camp fee and is doing everything possible to help him attend. We are now raising funds to assist with three nights of accommodation close to the campus, as well as travel and meals.

Our fundraising goal is $1,300. Funds raised will assist with:

• Three nights of accommodation for Samuel • Travel and fuel• Meals during the camp

Any remaining funds will be used only for Samuel’s ongoing football development, including training, equipment, registration or future sporting opportunities.

Samuel is a humble, hardworking and community-minded young person with genuine ability and an exciting future ahead of him.

Every donation, no matter the amount, will help Samuel make the most of this incredible opportunity. If you’re unable to donate, sharing his fundraiser would also mean so much to Samuel and his family.

Thank you for helping Samuel kick his next goal—both on and off the field.