The Carlton players hosted 30 children from Challenge – supporting kids with cancer, at Visy Park on Tuesday. The children were the special guests of the Carlton Football Club and were given the opportunity to meet the players, visit the locker room and enjoy a kick of the football on the ground.

The visit was arranged through Challenge – supporting kids with cancer to provide a special treat for the children and families for Christmas. A similar day was held last year and the Carlton players have confirmed they want this to be an annual event.

“It is a fantastic opportunity to meet with these young children and their families and hopefully provide them with some special Christmas cheer,” said Nick Stevens in between a kick to kick session on Visy Park with some of the children.

“To see the delight on their faces and appreciate how much they enjoy an opportunity to be here at Carlton and to see the players is fantastic. Not only is it something the kids love but all the players get a buzz out of the visit as we have an opportunity to bring some fun into their lives,” added Stevens.

It was no surprise that Chris Judd was one of the favourites of the children and the other big favourite was Eddie Betts. Of course all the players were favourites after the visit with Matthew Kreuzer the last one out on the ground to see the children as they enjoyed their sausage and soft drink. Kreuzer had just finished his weights session and he came straight out onto the ground not wishing to miss the kids.

Dave Rogers, CEO of Challenge, said the visit was a special treat for the kids at a special time of the year.

“We have been involved with Carlton for many years, I can remember meeting with Sticks (Stephen Kernahan), Braddles (Craig Bradley) and Ang Christou and we have a great relationship with the Carlton Football Club. It was great to see Simon Wiggins here today, his work with Challenge has been fantastic over many years and the kids loved seeing him today, he is a wonderful ambassador for the Carlton Football Club. We really appreciate the opportunity Carlton continues to provide Challenge.”

The Christmas visit for Challenge is part of Carlton’s ongoing work in the community. The players appreciate the unique position they have to be able to provide opportunities for people in the community.