By Craig Zammit
SYDNEY: Samsung has announced it will once again run its Healthy Kids Rule the Roost program for 2007, launching next Monday 16 July into 37 primary schools in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
Designed by Samsung in conjunction with the Sydney Roosters, the program encourages students in years five and six to lead healthier lifestyles, by submitting a healthy recipe and exercise plan for the chance to win prizes including the latest Samsung products, football tickets and a training session with the Roosters players.
The 2007 program follows on from the successful 2006 program where over 100 students submitted artwork celebrating the club’s one-hundredth season.
Assessing each student’s entry in 2007 will be the Sydney Roosters physical performance manager, Ron Palmer, and dietician, Sarah Dacres-Manning, with tips and advice offered through the programs website.
Program ambassador and Roosters captain, Craig Fitzgibbon, stated that obesity is becoming the biggest problem facing our young children today.
“This program will help promote the importance of a good diet and regular exercise at an influential age. Habits that these kids pick up now will benefit them as they get older,” said Fitzgibbon.
“It’s fantastic that our major sponsor, Samsung, has developed this program. I think it is a great initiative and I’m proud to be involved,” he said.
NSW Minister for Health, Reba Meagher, said adopting a healthier lifestyle could help kids avoid the health problems associated with obesity.
“Being healthy and fit gives you the energy to run faster, play more and can stop you from getting sick,” Meagher said.
“By turning off the TV and getting out for an hour of sport or activity a day, and choosing water, fruit and vegetables, you can help yourself to have more fun.”
Prizes which can be won by students include Samsung K3 mp3 players, a D900i mobile phone, a 395-litre frost-free refrigerator and a 28-litre Sensor microwave, as well as a Roosters training session and tickets to the final home game against the Penrith Panthers for the winning school.
Registration and further information can be found at www.samsung.com.au/roosters.