Smart play for pups fundraiser

The Dolphins’ campaign to raise $30,000 for Smart Pups will be in focus at their home game this weekend as they chase down the remaining $13,000 needed to train an assistance dog for a child with special needs.

The club started the campaign to raise the money for the non-profit organisation in 2020.

Trained in task-specific skills, Smart Pups improve children’s independence and quality of life. A staggering $17,000 was raised before COVID-19 halted the 2020 Intrust Super Cup season.

General Manager of Football Grant Cleal says with the 2021 season well underway, the Dolphins are committed to reaching the $30,000 target to fund the training of a Smart Pup.

“We want to finish what we started in the 2020 season and raise the funds to change the life of a family. Our goal is to reach the $30,000 that is required to train the dogs and present to a family at the end of the 2021 season,” he says.

What’s happening

The club will kickstart the 2021 fundraising effort with the first “Blackout Night” against rivals Wynnum Manly Seagulls on Saturday, July 10.

The Dolphins are calling on the community to support the campaign and are offering all fans the opportunity to score half-priced general admission entry if they wear black to the game at Moreton Daily Stadium on Saturday.

In addition, those wearing black will be entitled to a 10 per cent discount on the purchase of Dolphins and SmartPups Merchandise, which will be for sale at the game.

Smart Pups CEO Janelle Denny is thrilled the Dolphins are back on board to fundraise the remaining $13,000.

“We are so grateful to have Dolphins supporting Smart Pups and making a difference to the children with special needs. Last year was a tough year for the organisation and we are so pleased to have Dolphins back on board,” she says.

Gates open at 3pm on Saturday. Colts play at 4pm and Intrust Super Cup side is on the field from 6pm.

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