I founded Heartbeat of Football in 2016 after I lost a good friend to a Sudden Cardiac Arrest on the football field.
Sadly, over the years, a number of players have been lost to Sudden Cardiac Arrests, but fortunately, many have also been saved because someone was there who knew what to do.
Heartbeat of Football (HOF) wants to create an environment where everyone can safely play the sport they love for as long as possible.
HOF is a charitable organisation that raises funds to work with the amateur football community to educate, train and equip participants in order to reduce the risk of heart related deaths in football.
This weekend’s opening round against Perth Glory is another great opportunity for us to raise awareness.
In partnership with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute and Response for Life, HOF has already started Heart Health Assessment screenings at local Association and Football NSW Tournaments including the 2017 State Cup Finals at Parklea. Our team will be there again for the Champions of Champions Finals on October 22.
Since Heartbeat of Football’s launch in June 2016, we have staged a variety of events to raise awareness and funding for our cause.
A big highlight was being the recipient of a $30,000 donation with Victor Chang as part of the Club Marconi Team of the Century Gala Dinner this year. Club Marconi is not only a proud partner of the Western Sydney Wanderers but also an active supporter of our mission.
All we ask is for the football community to embrace us and help change the landscape of the game to make it as comfortable and safe for all participants.