Volleyball tournament organiser Danny Lautolo with his son Dominic before the inaugural cup in 2010. 49344 Picture: KIM CARTMELL
By CASEY NEILL
DANNY Lautolo is doing his bit to curb youth violence in Dandenong and calling for businesses and schools to get involved.
In 2010 the Samoan-born father of seven organised the first Multicultural Cup volleyball tournament at the State Volleyball Centre in Dandenong to bring together youths from Greater Dandenong, Cardinia and Casey.
His aim was to uncover hidden sporting gems and help address the social problems fellow Polynesians and youths of other cultural backgrounds faced by bringing them together.
The Victory Worship Centre Youth tournament, run with Volleyball Victoria and council support, is now in its third year and will be held at the State Volleyball Centre on 6 November.
Mr Lautolo wants to get kids off the street and make Melbourne a safer place to live.
“There is a lot of assault and these things happen on the street,” he said.
“I don’t like it. I’m an Islander and I don’t like it.”
On 11 October the Star reported that gang violence had reared its ugly head in Dandenong, with police confirming an incident at Dandenong Plaza was gang-related.
Five youths of Pacific Islander appearance threaten two teenagers because they were wearing blue bandanas – described by the gang as “their” colours.
The news followed social worker Les Twentyman telling the Star that Dandenong schools were bringing Pacific Islander elders into the school grounds at lunchtime to curb escalating gang violence.
“We need to work as a community to ensure these kids stay in school and engaged,” he said.
“The Islander community also has a major role to play here too.”
Mr Lautolo feels a responsibility to play his part.
“The main thing is to help the kids on the street – anywhere, any colour,” he said.
In 2010 he told the Star: “Even if we can grab one kid from the street and they go all the way to represent Victoria – that’s a huge thing,”
And that’s just what’s happened. Lynbrook’s Patrick Sani has made the Victorian under-18 volleyball team.
“I think he’s going to represent Australia one day,” Mr Lautolo said.
He wants to see other kids make the same journey and is urging schools and clubs to enter teams in the tournament.
They also have the chance to claim prizes, including the $3000 first-prize. Last year 22 teams participated, including some from interstate and New Zealand, and there are already 20 signed up for this year.
Mr Lautolo and his team have been fund-raising for the event but needed donations to help cover awards, administration overheads and venue hire.
“We need their support,” he said.
“I’ve got no money. I just try to help out.”
Victory Worship Centre Youth tries to influence young people to use their talents and get healthy through sport.
Call Victory Worship Centre Youth on 5998 8105 or email admin@youthamania.com.au for more information or to lend support.
