By Craig Zammit
NORTH RYDE: Philips is showing its support for the indigenous charity organisation, Red Dust Role Models, by donating $100 for every slam dunk scored in the 2007 Philips Championship Finals series of the National Basketball League (NBL).
With a possible 15 games to be played-out during the current NBL finals, Philips could end up donating a handsome sum to the newly-established ‘health promotion’ charity.
Red Dust Role Models uses the high profile and influence of positive role models, such as NBL players and coaches, to deliver health education and to encourage healthy lifestyle decisions among indigenous youth in remote communities.
Philips Electronics Australia chief executive officer, Harry van Dyk, said Red Dust is a worthy cause and one which Philips is happy to support.
“I recently joined NBL commissioner Rick Burton on a Red Dust tour of the outback to see the fantastic work they are doing with indigenous youth,” said van Dyk.
“They are making an immense difference to the lives of so many young indigenous people and Philips is delighted to be able to support Red Dust Role Models in this way.”
NBL Commissioner, Rick Burton, said the initiative was one which was truly worthwhile.
“Having visited some of these communities myself, I saw first-hand the importance of the Red Dust Role Models program,” said Burton.
“We’ve had many NBL players past and present who have participated in previous trips to these regions with John Van Groningen of Red Dust, so this is a cause close to the hearts of our clubs.
“I know there will be plenty of stars in the Philips Championship looking to throw down dunks at every opportunity during the Finals to support the great work Red Dust does.”