The Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs have developed a successful employment program with Newcastle based company Commworx, who are one of the main contractors rolling out the NBN across Sydney.
Currently there are 11 SG Ball, NYC and NSW Cup players employed with the company, with scope for more to join as they embark on expansion in new broadband connectivity areas.
Commworx Directors Adam Dobb and Cheyne Lennon saw the benefit of employing young footballers who thrive in a team environment and the company is committed to ensuring the players have a career beyond rugby league.
“We have provided an opportunity to the Bulldogs and the players have embraced this opportunity wholeheartedly. They are a great crew who get on well with the other workers and are learning new skills. The opportunities are there for the players to become technicians if their footy careers don’t take off and a few already have become leaders of their respective crews. The company is expanding so hopefully they can become an integral part of our growth,” said Dobb.
The players are learning the ropes connecting households to the NBN with on and off site training in co-axial connections, high level connectivity and the safe handling of asbestos which is a remnant of the old Telstra pits.
“The work is meaningful, fulltime and long term which fits well with the young players, who are starting their rugby league careers, but also aren’t being disadvantaged by having to devote fulltime to that cause. The players have already developed career plans that will see them become telecommunication technicians whilst earning a good income. Having an employer who understands the rigors of rugby league and the responsibilities of the players, can be flexible when injuries and weekday matches appear in the schedule,” added Wellbeing and Education Manager Steve Pike.
The Bulldogs place high priority on developing off field careers with the majority of
our young players in either apprenticeships, fulltime roles such as Commworx, or studying at university.
