Former Hennessy Catholic College student and Australian cricketer, Nathan Lyon, during his elevation to being one of the best spin bowlers in the world has kept in mind his old school motto, “inspire futures of hope”, and in doing so will return home this weekend to support a good cause.
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Lyon will take on the role of guest speaker at Hennessy’s final fundraiser of the year to be held at the Young Services Club this Saturday, June 21.
The fundraiser is being held to assist 33 students heading to Cambodia in July to build three homes, as well as assist the Sisters of Mercy Orphanage with a substantial donation.
The immersion program to Cambodia is one component of Hennessy’s social justice and community service program that requires students to serve their communities and make a difference in their world.
And doing just that is Lyon – considered an inspiration for all aspiring young athletes in Australia.
The former student was Hennessy’s first choice as guest speaker.
“Nathan is a talented sportsperson who had a dream and pursued his dream of playing first-class cricket and ultimately to play cricket for Australia,” Hennessy Catholic College principal Dr Webster said.
“The pathway to achieve this goal was not an easy one and Nathan needed to overcome many setbacks along the way.
Lyon will speak to attendants about his journey to become a professional cricketer, as well as providing a signed cricket bat that will be auctioned off during the night’s proceedings.
“It’s an honour to have such a talented sportsperson back within our community,” acting principal Gerard Simms said.
“I think it’s part of Hennessy’s aim - inspiring futures of hope - in that we ask our students to contribute back to their community as well, to appreciate what their communities have done for them.
“And by returning he fulfils our act justly by using his talents to promote the needs of others.”
“I hope what they take from it is that we as a community in Young support the diversity within, and it’s possible to achieve any dream, even from humble beginnings. “
“This is a unique opportunity for our students and our community to reach out to an international stage, and Nathan Lyon in his sporting ability has reached out in that level,” Simms said.
“And for our students, they are reaching out to for fill the significant needs of others in poorer communities.”
The fundraiser will include an auction of memorabilia such as an autographed and framed 2013 NSW jumper, a signed cricket bat and Adam Goodes’s football boots.
All monies raised on the night will be put toward constructing the three houses and donations to an orphanage, with students having covered their own travel costs.
Tickets can be purchased from the office at Hennessy for $50