Holden pays the advantage

HOLDEN has announced a $5 million grants program, in conjunction with the National Rugby League (NRL), to support grassroots sporting clubs across the country.

GM Holden said in a statement that its ‘Home Ground Advantage’ program will see the company commit $500,000 per year over a 10-year period to Australian sports clubs, which will help them purchase sporting equipment and to further invest in player development.

The American-owned car-maker said it will use its network of 230 dealerships as a point of contact and support for the program in local communities.

The grants will be split into two separate rounds, ensuring summer and winter sports each benefit from $250,000 each. One project in each round will be awarded a grant of up to $100,000, while the remaining funds will be made up of grants of up to $10,000.

Holden executive director of corporate affairs George Svigos said the program goes beyond buying equipment, adding that it will assist in finding the next generation of local sporting talent.

“Holden Home Ground Advantage isn’t just about upgrading clubrooms it’s about developing Australia’s future talent, nurturing grassroots sports and creating environments that encourage teamwork and wellbeing,” he said. “Like Holden, grassroots sporting clubs are an integral part of the Australian way of life.” Mr Svigos said young people’s involvement in sport can benefit not only their physical but mental health.

“Kids today face a number of challenges and distractions in fact a recent study found that adolescents who drop out of organised sport are 10 to 20 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health problem in the following three years.

“It’s important that we as a nation foster positive growth in our youngest generations by offering them safe, fun and engaging environments to thrive in. This is the heart of Holden’s Home Ground Advantage program.” The program launched in Sydney on the weekend with well-known rugby league players Laurie Daley and Petero Civoniceva on hand to assist with proceedings.

Holden signed a circa-$10 million NRL sponsorship deal early last year which gave the company naming rights to the State of Origin series and the national team, which is now known as the Holden Kangaroos.

The company is also a major sponsor of Australian Football League club, the Collingwood Magpies.

Clubs can apply for the Home Ground Advantage grants via Holden’s consumer website and applications for the first round are open now and close at the end of February, 2015.