CHARLES Sturt University (CSU) will unveil another short-term recruit on Saturday but their guest this time arrives with a completely different purpose.
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A month after the successful appearance of Daniel Kerr, the Bushpigs will unleash Northern Territory footballer Jackson Clark for a guest appearance against Marrar at Langtry Oval.
Clark is a well-travelled and accomplished footballer in his own right but will arrive in Wagga in a bid to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of speaking up.
Clark set himself the goal of playing one-off games in every state and territory in Australia this season and has already achieved that before the end of May.
“The footy clubs have been amazing...and I’m very thankful for CSU jumping on board and giving me the chance to extend the project another week,” Clark said.
Clark will train with CSU on Thursday night then talk to the footballers and netballers at a club function afterwards. He will then stay and play for the Bushpigs on Saturday.
Clark wants to encourage young people to speak up about mental health and to remind clubs of the importance of their role.
“It’s about starting the conversation at footy clubs, because they play such an important role, about speaking up if you’re struggling,” Clark said.
“If you’re not 100 per cent, speak up and got professional help, and for footy clubs to support that.”
CSU president Tristan Robinson believes it is an important message for all clubs.
“We haven’t done much of this before. It’s an opportunity for us to create a bit more understanding about what can be a taboo topic.
“We all know different people that have been up and down and clubs play an important role in bringing people together and supporting them.
“I heard about Jackson’s cause and thought it would be perfect to pursue it for our footy club because it’s a great message.”
Clark will also prove a more than handy addition for CSU, as the Bushpigs look to continue their strong start to the Farrer League season against the undefeated Bombers.
Clark, 23, has played at VFL level with Bendigo and also did a pre-season with Essendon’s VFL team. He has been a regular for St Mary’s in the Northern Territory in recent seasons.
“I’ve played at some pretty high standards and also some pretty low standards but footy’s footy. I’m looking forward to it,” Clark said.
“Hopefully I play alright because I do understand that I’m taking someone’s spot for the week but in the end the overall message transcends a game of footy.”
