Donations help club to kick on

By Shaun Inguanzo
A COMMUNITY football team on the brink of folding has been rescued by community donations.
Gifts of nearly $4000 have saved the MIDDWAY Cobras from having to pull out of this season’s competition.
The club allows poor, mentally ill, homeless and other disadvantaged people from Greater Dandenong and Casey to enjoy a team sport.
Early this month the not-for-profit club revealed it was in the red because it had no sponsorship and could not afford to play the 2007 season unless it cleared a $1000 debt and find the $6000 it would need for the 2007 season.
Cobras president and Cornerstone Dandenong pastor Don Cameron feared the financial burden would spell the end of the team and disappoint the players who relied on it for a social and physical outlet.
But this week Mr Cameron said the community had come to the rescue, donating about $3900 in cash to allow the team to finish paying off last season’s debts and afford to begin playing in the RecLink league against similar teams starting next month.
“We are very encouraged by the community feeling towards the club, with a lot of (sponsors) jumping on board,” Mr Cameron said.
He urged businesses and residents to continue pitching funds for the Cobras’ cause so it could reach its total of $7000.
So far Holden Community Relations has pitched in $1500, Casey councillors Janet Halsall and Wayne Smith a combined $1000 of ward funds, R and C Homes and Extensions $700, Excell Automotive $500, and Matt Moir from Jukebox Hire $200.
Meanwhile, Mr Cameron said the Cobras were also on the hunt for players and club helpers. For more information contact Don Cameron on 0415 888 528.