Western Sydney Wanderers launch Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarship

Western Sydney Wanderers and naming rights and major partner NRMA Insurance have teamed up with Western Sydney University to create the inaugural NRMA Insurance and Western Sydney Wanderers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholarship.

The scholarship is available now to current or commencing students to help them excel in their tertiary studies at Western Sydney University.

The scholarship will be awarded annually to the value of $12,650 and will also include a paid internship at NRMA Insurance or Western Sydney Wanderers.

To be eligible, applicants must be of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent and have a connection to football in Western Sydney.

Anthony Justice, Chief Executive for NRMA Insurance said the scholarship is a part of the organisation’s Reconciliation Action Plan which seeks to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, businesses and communities, stating “the Western Sydney Wanderers share our passion for helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students achieve their dreams, whether that be through sport or studies.

"We are proud to have created a scholarship program which will give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students the foundation for future success through supporting their studies at Western Sydney University.

"The scholarship participant will also work in our business as a paid intern to get practical, on the job experience with Australia’s largest general insurer."

NRMA Insurance Western Sydney Wanderers Chief Executive John Tsatsimas said the program is a great opportunity to recognise and reward a student from the large Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community of Western Sydney.

Tsatsimas stated “whether you are commencing or starting your Western Sydney University course this is a unique and rewarding opportunity to not only get financial support during your studies but also an opportunity at one of Australia’s most prominent businesses with an NRMA Insurance internship.

“Our region has a rich cultural history and being able to support a student who also has a passion for football is an exciting opportunity in support of our region and our people.”

The scholarship presents either a registered player in Western Sydney; a volunteer for a Western Sydney grassroots football club; an existing Western Sydney Wanderers member or someone involved in a school football team through playing, volunteering or refereeing the opportunity to receive tuition support for the length of your undergraduate degree.

Applications are now open and close on 17th March, 2017.

Click here for more information.

Image (from left) David Hebblewhite, Partnerships & Channel Marketing Manager, NRMA Insurance; Professor Lisa Jackson-Pulver, Pro Vice Chancellor, Engagement & Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Leadership, Western Sydney University; Deborah Carr, Executive Director, Advancement, Western Sydney University; and John Tsatsimas.

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