Parra Leagues Tackles Cost of Living Crisis with Inaugural Boot Swap Event

As more and more families do it tough across the country amidst the cost-of-living crisis, parents are searching for any extra help they can get. 

Fortunately, Parra Leagues lent a hand last week, hosting their inaugural ‘boot swap’ day, where young rugby league players could trade in their boots for another pair ahead of this year’s season.

Parra Leagues CEO Chris Dimou said their purpose was to bring together the community, support local causes, sport, the Parramatta Eels and to promote wellbeing, happiness and pride. 

“Supporting and fostering our wonderful game of rugby league, and in particular grassroots and junior rugby league, is at the core of why we exist,” Chris said. 

“The idea behind the boot swap event is to promote the spirit of community, and also to help reduce the cost of participating in sport for families. 

“With the new rugby league season approaching, and with the current cost of living challenges many families are facing, now seemed like a great time to launch this exciting initiative.” 

Chris said over 100 people came through the Club’s doors.

“There were over 36 unique swaps during the event over three hours. It saw an impressive collection of boots donated, with their cumulative value amounting to just under $12,000 if purchased new,” he said.

“Many of the donated pairs were in excellent condition, and some had never been worn, showcasing the generosity and goodwill within the community.”

When asked about the impact of the boot swap initiative in the community, Chris said attendees expressed their gratitude for the opportunity it provided. 

“One of the key sentiments echoed was the initiative's role in broadening the footy community, allowing families facing cost of living challenges to actively participate in the game. Participants noted the boot swap reduced expenses and enabled more individuals to enjoy the benefits of sports participation.”

“Parents just want to do best by their kids and do what they can to get them on the sporting field this season, and this initiative certainly helped. Encouraged by the success of the inaugural boot swap, the Parramatta Eels and Parra Leagues Club are excited to announce that plans are already underway for the next swap event.”

Chris said there was plenty to keep attendees entertained during the event.

“There were Eels inflatables where the kids could burn off some of their school holiday energy, live music with our community partner Alive 90.5, an opportunity for all to test their skills with our footy passing challenge, a chance to meet Sparky and Sparkles, a sausage sizzle, and an opportunity to spin the win for a chance to win signed boots, worn by some of the Parramatta Eels.

“Not only did we have Sparky and Sparkles mingling with the visitors, but we also had Elsie Albert and Ruby-Jean Kennard from the Eels NRLW team handing out boots and manning our boot wash station. Eels Legends Tim Mannah and Nathan Cayless were also there, giving excited fans plenty of opportunities for signatures and photos.”