The clinics were held on Saturday, coordinated by Murray River Police District in partnership with community members and a Sydney-based organisation.
Leading the soccer and rugby sessions were National Rugby League stars Charlie Tonga and Solomon Haumono, former National Soccer League player Gerry Gomez and Southern Districts rugby player Makayla Manu.
Murray River Police District Chief Inspector Michael Fuller said the engagement day was a “great success”.
The day started with skills and coaching clinics and a football game,“ he said.
“The Murray River PD officers and a large number of kids were taken through their paces by the sports stars and trainers.
“This followed with a change to learning rugby union and league skills, and a very competitive touch football match that was played in and refereed by the sports stars and trainers.
“The day wrapped up with a barbecue lunch and presentations from Murray River Police District Superintendent Paul Smith APM to the sports stars and support teams that made the day happen.
“The focus on the day was breaking down barriers and building engagement between police and the community, with sport as a way to bring people together.
“The day went very well with a lot of fun had and new skills learnt, plus a number of giveaways to the kids and adults who attended thanks to the groups involved in supporting the day.
“Murray River Police District will be continuing to work with stakeholders to develop further activities and programs that connect police and the community.
“We thank everyone involved in planning and participating on the day.”
Police worked with Pastor Mark Horan from the Sydney-based Impact Team to bring the stars to Deniliquin.
Also partnering on the project from the local area were Deniliquin Neighbourhood Watch instigator and soccer coach Diego Sztejman, long-time rugby union advocate Tim Strong and Pastor Keith Waters from Ignite Life Church.
During their visit to Deniliquin, the sports stars were also hosted for a meet and greet at the Railway Hotel by the Deniliquin Blue Heelers rugby league team on Friday night, and at Ignite Life Church on Saturday night.
28°C