16 July 2024
From the Field to the Community with Daly Cherry-Evans
On the eve of the State of Origin decider, we caught up with Queensland State of Origin captain and 2023 Sports Dad of the Year winner, Daly Cherry-Evans, to discuss family, community sports volunteers and his support of mental fitness.
Daly’s love for rugby league in Queensland began early, inspired by New South Wales legendary player – Andrew Johns.
With his family’s encouragement, his love for the sport grew and became a major part of his life. “I couldn’t have asked for more love and support from my parents,” Daly shared. “They got me to endless training sessions and would do whatever it took to make ends meet to give me the chance to go away for extra competitions or representative sides.”
As a father of three daughters, Daly strives to instil the same supportive values his parents gave him. He actively participates in his children’s community sports activities, whether it’s netball, soccer, or swimming, showing up on the sidelines and encouraging their pursuits. “I try to be as active as possible with my kids in any way possible. The thing I love most is trying to understand what makes my kids happy. Guiding them and supporting them to give them every opportunity to live a happy life,” he said.
Sports play a vital role in community development, providing children with opportunities to learn teamwork, discipline, and resilience while fostering a sense of belonging and physical and mental well-being. Volunteers are the backbone of these programs, dedicating their time and energy to coach, mentor, and support young athletes. Daly emphasised, “We can’t do enough to recognise the work of our volunteers in sport. From the referees and coaches to the people in the canteen, they all make an impact on their club but also the next generation of athletes.”
Last year, Daly’s exemplary role as a father and sportsman was recognised when he was awarded the Philips Sports Dad of the Year. True to his generous spirit, Daly donated $10,000 from his win to Gotcha4Life, a charity dedicated to mental health and suicide prevention. Gotcha4Life promotes mental fitness and builds social connectedness to reduce the rates of suicide and mental illness in Australia. Founder Gus Worland said, “Daly Cherry-Evans’ generous donation enabled 200 people to attend a life-changing program to build their mental fitness so they’re better equipped to handle the ups and downs of life. The positive impact extends to countless others in their entire village of family, friends, workmates, and wider community.”
We are incredibly grateful for Daly and his continued support of Gotcha4Life.
Gus Worland, Founder
Engaging in sports as a child boosts mental fitness by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It also enhances focus, memory, and problem-solving skills, which can improve school performance. Making friends through sports provides emotional support and a sense of belonging, essential for overall well-being.
This year, nominations for the Community Sports Dad of the Year are open, inviting stories of fathers who make extraordinary contributions to grassroots sports. Celebrating these unsung heroes not only honours their dedication but also inspires others to engage and support their communities.
Last years Community winner and president of the Cobar junior soccer club, Greg McKervey said “Any community group rests on the people who are willing to volunteer their time and effort. It’s also been a great way to establish lasting relationships with my two boys. In particular my 10 year old and I spend a lot of time training together. This is led by him as he wants to improve but also gives me the chance to spend time with him away from a computer screen”.
This years winner will receive a Philips male grooming pack valued at over $1,000, as well as a $5,000 Rebel Sports voucher to purchase new clothing or sporting equipment for the community sports club of choice.