ANDY’S Pirates by Linus Power

Playing junior team sport makes a lifelong difference for children, but it doesn’t just happen by accident – there is a team of selfless and dedicated volunteers that put in long hours to make it work. 

We have a wide range of sports in the region including Horse Riding/Pony Club, Soccer, Cricket, Rugby League, BMX, netball and more, all within a 15km radius of the Park Ridge town centre and they are manned by some of the best local volunteers in the Logan community. However it takes a special kind of volunteer to start a new club from scratch and make it work. That’s why it is particularly worthwhile acknowledging the Park Ridge Pirates AFL club and their president Andy Colenso. Andy not only encourages kids into sport he also drags the parents into becoming a part of the Pirates family.

A small business owner and fanatical footy follower, Andy brings out the best of everyone he meets. He organises people as volunteers to help build the club. Everyone has a place and a role at the Pirates and Andy uses their strengths and abilities in positive ways. 

As one of the main Captains at Park Ridge Pirates, he and his merry band of buccaneers are the driving force that encourage so many families to head to the Pirates home ground for a come along and have a kick day.

Those families are warmly welcomed and often stay with their teams for the next decade of sport enjoying the atmosphere and light-hearted fun that sport should bring to young people.

Nothing is too hard for Andy and the organisers. I know of families who have hit hard times and been supported by the club to continue their sport.

So next time you are down at the Park Ridge State High School where the Pirates play, or indeed at any of our local clubs, take the time to say thank you to a coach, club official or the person running the canteen – they make a lasting difference to our local community.

To contact the Pirates go to www.parkridgepiratesafc.com