Students from across the north-west region on Melbourne took part in Essendon’s final phase of the On The Ball program on Friday.

In partnership with Bendigo Bank Strathmore Community Branch, On The Ball is a club community program suitable for students in primary school and middle secondary schools. The three-phase program uses elite sportsmen and women from Essendon and the Australian Paralympic Committee as positive role models to inform students of the issues associated with cyber bullying, drugs, alcohol and other risk taking activities.

Keilor Heights Primary School took out the major cash-prize in the primary school section with Glenroy Central collecting the second place cheque. 

The senior category was won by Gisborne Secondary College with their unique “Prezi” presentation on “Healthy Body = Healthy Mind, and a healthy me makes me smile”.  Their innovative idea involved educating students from local feeder primary schools in ways to help reduce stress and pressures that may impact on their mental health. 

The judging panel included Helen Morrison from the Bendigo Bank Strathmore Community Branch as well as Essendon Head of Community Cameron Britt.

Essendon Football Club wishes to thank the Bendigo Bank Strathmore Community Branch for their ongoing support of the On The Ball program.