There hasn't been as much success on the field as the Dubbo Rhinos would have liked in recent years but one thing the club has been proud of is its community engagement and willingness to get behind a cause.
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That eagerness to be more than just a few footy sides will be shown again this year as the Rhinos are offering free registration and entry to matches to those who work in emergency services as well as those who have been the frontline workers in more recent times.
The initiative will be brought in as a way of saying thanks for those who have had to ensure so much during the last few years.
"It's a thank you for those who had to work during the bushfires or the doctors and nurses and the police and ambulance workers who were involved in the COVID-19 pandemic," Rhinos president Ian Burns said.
"It's a small club saying thanks and they can come and watch the footy or play if they want."
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Burns is a police officer so the initiative is something he is proud of and was delighted when it came up as an idea during a recent Rhinos meeting.
"I think a lot of people don't get enough recognition," Burns said.
"People don't always get told they're valued so I think it's well overdue and I think a gesture like this can go a long way."
Those who are willing to take the Rhinos up on their offer to play or just turn up and watch a few games must provide some kind of proof or identification to receive the benefits.
The Rhinos, like so many sporting groups around the region, have regularly had charity rounds each season and helped make donations to certain causes in the local community.
Mental health has been a major area of focus of the club while there's also been a strong emphasis on Indigenous connection and welfare.
"Every year we seem to come across a reason to raise money or awareness," Burns said.
"This might not be the only thing we do this season.
"I'm quite proud of the record we have of doing this and it's not going to change."
The Rhinos have been back into pre-season training in the last couple of weeks with new coach Doug Sandry and his team already making an impact.
While it's "still early days" Burns is hopeful of a few new faces in the senior ranks as the Rhinos' to help the Rhinos first grade side win a match for the first time since the 2018 season.
Burns will help lead the club's colts side again and after showing real development last season before just missing finals he's got high hopes for the year ahead with the majority of players returning.
"We expect better this year and we're very keen," he said of the club.
The draw for the Rhinos' New Holland Agriculture Cup and colts seasons are expected to released later this week.
Burns added new and interested players are still welcome to join and those keen to have a run can contact the club president on 0427 827 125.
Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
