Players band together to raise awareness for health and wellbeing
Woodville West Torrens Eagles SANFL player Jake Comitogianni and women’s up-and-comer Sophie Zuill are proud to join the fight against disease and illness as ambassadors for The Hospital Research Foundation (THRF) Group.
In tackling this new off-field opponent, the players will band together to help raise awareness and funds for life-changing medical research and patient care services across South Australia.
Reigning premiers the Eagles announced THRF Group as their official charity partner in 2021 to strengthen their passion for the health and wellbeing of the community.
Midfielder Jake is looking forward to taking on his new role in support of the many patients who are fighting a formidable health battle, with cancer a cause particularly close to his heart.
“I have a strong passion for this Club and the community values that they hold,” Jake said.
“The partnership with The Hospital Research Foundation Group is one I’m really passionate about; having lost a very good mate and my grandmother to brain cancer, as well as seeing other very close family friends go through breast cancer.
“I am keen to start creating awareness about THRF Group and the work they do as I believe it has a huge impact on not only on the lives of my family and friends; but the lives of the greater community involved with WWTFC.”
Sophie is also keen to take the challenge head on, with her passion for the community highlighted through her long-time interest in surf lifesaving before making the switch to footy two years ago.
“I am very grateful for the opportunities I continue to receive from WWTFC and I can’t wait to join the fight as an ambassador for The Hospital Research Foundation Group,” Sophie said.
“Having lost family members to cancer and seeing other family and friends battle similar illnesses, I believe The Hospital Research Foundation is doing really important and valuable work and I can’t wait to be involved.”
THRF Group CEO Paul Flynn was proud to welcome the young players to the cause.
“Disease and illness do not discriminate, as Jake and Sophie have already experienced,” Paul said.
“We all need someone in our corner fighting for our health. THRF Group supports over 50 areas of research and healthcare, including cancer, mental health, diabetes, heart disease and many more.
“We’re delighted to welcome Jake and Sophie as THRF Group ambassadors to together, fight for the better health and wellbeing of our community.”