Disability Sports Australia Chosen as Beneficiary for The Donovan Effect’s Opportunity Link Round  

Disability Sports Australia (DSA) is honoured to announce its selection as the primary beneficiary for this year's Opportunity Link Round, organised by The Donovan Effect (TDE). This initiative integrates individuals with disabilities into mainstream sports activities. It benefits those that are playing, volunteering, officiating, or providing support.  

The Donovan Effect's annual Opportunity Link Round raises funds for a chosen charity. In collaboration with their local rugby club, this is led by Lauris Donovan - a passionate rugby league participant with cerebral palsy. 

This year’s event will take place on Sunday 21 July, at Cahill Oval in Belmont, NSW. It promises to be an exciting day of rugby. There will be various fundraising activities including raffles and auctions of A-grade jerseys.  

Funds raised during the event will allocate as follows:  

  • Half of the proceeds will go to Disability Sports Australia.  

  • An additional $1,000 donation to a local organisation or sports club.  

  • The remainder will be used to purchase jerseys for the next year's event.  

Ayden Shaw, CEO of Disability Sports Australia said: “Being chosen as the beneficiary for this event is a tremendous honour. The support from The Donovan Effect and the local rugby league community is invaluable in helping us continue our mission of active lives for all Australians living with disabilities.”  

Lauris Donovan, Founder of The Donovan Effect said: “Having Cerebral Palsy growing up there wasn’t as much support or inclusiveness as there is seen now. I have played sport my whole life ranging from swimming, soccer, rugby union and now rugby league. Sport has been a life saver for me on numerous occasions and a place I feel ‘just like others’.  

I started TDE alongside OPP LINK knowing I could make a difference and create a safe place for people of all abilities and ages to come and be who they are whilst supporting others. The Donovan Effect has been my lifeline, something I am very proud of and love seeing grow. From being told I am different or can’t do things others can, I was able to, and that has been so rewarding.”    

TDE have received a tremendous amount of support from so many people and organisations, a special mention goes to Billi who, day in day out helps drive TDE and OPP LINK event. 

To follow the Donovan Effect’s journey, follow them on Facebook.

Media Contact:  

Max Reilly    

Participation and Communications Coordinator   

Disability Sports Australia   

max@sports.org.au

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