Neds supporting Smart Pups in memory of Tommy Raudonikis OAM

Wests Tigers Premier Partner Neds are proud to be supporting charity organisation Smart Pups Assistance Dogs by donating their sternum presence on the team’s jersey this weekend.

In celebration of the late Tommy Raudonikis OAM, Wests Tigers will wear a specially-designed jersey for their Round 9 clash with the Smart Pups logo to instead feature prominently on the front of the strip.

In addition to donating their jersey presence, Neds will also make a financial contribution of $5,000 to Smart Pups, which will be presented at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

Smart Pups Assistance Dogs is a non-for-profit charity organisation based on the Sunshine Coast that specialise in providing trained service dogs to assist children with special needs. A charity that was to the heart of Raudonikis, their goal is to improve the quality of life of children with special needs by training assistance dogs in task-specific skills.

Smart Pups CEO Janelle Denny expressed her gratitude towards Neds for their generosity.

“Smart Pups Assistance Dogs is so very appreciative of the generosity of Neds as their gift will help families achieve their goals for greater independence,” Denny said.

“This donation will enable us to purchase specially-bred labrador and golden retriever puppies for our assistance dog training program. These puppies will go on to become an integral part of the life of a child with a diagnosed special-need such as autism, seizures, mobility and diabetes-related syndromes.”

Neds Executive Director – Corporate Development Karl deKroo said the organisation was delighted to be able to contribute in this way.

“Neds is thrilled to partner with Wests Tigers and Smart Pups on this special jersey,” deKroo said.

“Tommy Raudonikis was a true rugby league legend and that has been reflected in the tributes that have flowed since his passing.

“Smart Pups was a charity very close to Tommy’s heart — he saw firsthand the number of children who had their quality of life improved through a Smart Pups assistance dog," he said.

“This truly is a great cause and, combining our jersey presence to promote Smart Pups and an initial $5,000 donation, we are delighted to be able to play our part in celebrating the life of Tommy Raudonikis.”

Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe thanked Neds for their ongoing support and said he was looking forward to seeing the special jersey in action.

“On behalf of all at the club, I’d like to thank Neds for their partnership with the club and their unreserved contributions towards Smart Pups this weekend,” Pascoe said.

“It has been a tremendous effort by all involved to bring this jersey to life and I’m looking forward to seeing a strong Wests Tigers performance at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Saturday.”