Breaking Barriers: Vikings Kids into Sport Program
Vikings is proud to assist families experiencing economic hardship through Kids into Sport, a program that enables school-aged children who would otherwise not have the means to participate in sport.
A pathway to belong and connect
The rising cost of living means many Tuggeranong-based children are excluded from the opportunities being part of a team affords, such as physical, emotional, and social benefits, and long-term development of self-efficacy and increased wellbeing.
Kids into Sport is one of the clearest expressions of our firm belief that every child and young person should have the chance to belong. Kids into Sport brings these values to life by creating a pathway for young people to participate, connect, belong, and grow in an activity that brings the community together. The program supports equity through access, providing space for a child to thrive regardless of financial barriers.
The Kids into Sport concept is simple: fund $350 per eligible child, paid directly to a local affiliated sports club, to cover registration fees for the season. By alleviating financial stresses, the program allows Tuggeranong children aged between six and 17 to access local sport. Kids into Sport referrals are open all year, so junior seasons and all abilities are included to increase opportunities for participation.
Kids into Sport: a referral-based program
Kids into Sport built strong momentum in 2024/25, with more referrers, more sports clubs engaging, and more children and young people accessing sport. Since 2022, we have supported 99 children and young people across 18 sporting clubs. The program grew 26% year on year, from 63 referrals to 80 referrals in 2024/25. Many of our referrers have their own intrinsic connections in the Canberra community, including YWCA Canberra, PYCYC, and Marymead, as well as our affiliated sports clubs. The informal referral partnership is one we truly value and continue to build into the future.
An enriching story of inclusion and community
Behind each registration is a story of inclusion, a child having the opportunity to participate in sport, the chance to become part of a team, a parent relieved of financial strain, and a sports club enriched by new or returning members.
“I was incredibly grateful that Vikings helped ensure my daughters could continue playing this year. This is so much more than financial assistance, to me, this is compassion, generosity, and community spirit at its very best.” - Parent
Program participants hail from all over the Tuggeranong region including Banks, Kambah, Oxley, Richardson, and Wanniassa. The program allows children and young people to engage in their chosen sport, as well as meet others from a range of psychosocial, demographic, and geographic backgrounds.
Kids into Sport stands as a quiet but powerful force for good. The program’s success lies in our community-first, dignity-preserving approach, ensuring families, via referrers, receive support without stigma or unnecessary stress. It also fosters collaboration and connection between Vikings, community groups, and our affiliated sporting clubs. One of our referrers and affiliated clubs, Rebels Netball Club, has seen firsthand the long-term impact:
“The Kids into Sport Program has helped Rebels build a community for our kids to be involved in a sport they love. These opportunities have meant families can focus on support for their kids, and take some of the cost of living pressure off.” - Megan Agland, Secretary, Rebels Netball Club
Megan noted several of the players supported have since progressed to volunteer roles as coaches and umpires, highlighting how inclusion and support can empower young people to engage and lead, setting the example for the next generation.
What began as a modest response to a growing need has become a cornerstone of Vikings’ commitment to the community. Sport is not only beneficial for physical wellbeing, but also increases social development and community resilience, building confidence and essential skills in children and young people. Kids into Sport supports and enhances community connection, removing barriers and restoring access. Above all, it reminds us that when clubs take the lead, real and lasting empowerment and inclusion are possible.