The Western Bulldogs are back in Ballarat today – returning to their home away from home as part of the AFL community camp program.
Coach Luke Beveridge, players and club representatives will visit schools and community groups across the city.
The team will present Welcome to Bulldogs Read 2020 at the Ballarat Library at 12pm and the City of Ballarat will host a Civic Reception for the team at Town Hall at 1pm.
The City of Ballarat is an official partner of the Bulldogs Read Literacy program through City of Ballarat Libraries.
The program provides students from grade three to six an opportunity to participate in reading and writing workshops, activities and events, including library tours and an author event, along with the ability to upload their book reviews to the Bulldogs Read website.
The Western Bulldogs provide access to players, football clinics and prizes and encourages children to read and exercise more.
This afternoon’s Civic Reception will officially welcome the Western Bulldogs to Ballarat ahead of the 2020 AFL season.
The Doggies will play two matches at Ballarat’s premier sporting and events facility, Mars Stadium, in 2020 –
Western Bulldogs v Gold Coast Suns in round eight on Saturday 9 May
Western Bulldogs v Port Adelaide in round 22 on Saturday 15 August
City of Ballarat Mayor Cr Ben Taylor says it’s great to see the red, white and blue return to the heart of Ballarat.
“It is a real privilege to welcome the Western Bulldogs back to Ballarat,” he says.
“The City of Ballarat’s partnership with the Western Bulldogs is proving to bring great benefits to the people of Ballarat. For instance, we know the Bulldogs Read program is a program that truly changes lives.
“The club is also visiting several schools and community groups today. For these schools and groups, having the opportunity to interact with elite AFL players has far reaching benefits in areas such as healthy living, exercise, nutrition and leadership. And for many, it’s inspirational – it’s a dream come true to meet their AFL heroes.
“Ballarat is a sporting city – there’s no doubt we are passionate about our sport. As a city, we are particularly excited about the strong ties that now connect us to the Western Bulldogs. The Doggies have become an important part of our city’s sporting psyche. Ballarat has really embraced the red, white and blue.”
