AFL players have today donated almost a quarter of a million dollars to youth charity, Ladder, as part of the AFL Players’ Care initiative.

AFL Players Care is the official charity initiative of all AFL and AFLW players, where every current AFL player donates $50 to the fund for every senior match they play. From that, $25 is donated to Ladder, with the organisation receiving $238,050 annually.

Ladder Board Director and Adelaide Crows’ Captain, Jordan Dawson, together with North Melbourne’s Wil Dawson and AFLW Collingwood player Muireann Atkinson, presented a cheque on behalf of the playing group to Ladder CEO Stephanie De Campo and Ladder Alumni Jordan McCallum and Katie Ronaldson.

Dawson was proud to be representing the entire playing group, driving player support and empowering young people to reach their potential.

“As players, we hold the power to support young people through life’s toughest quarters. It’s truly inspiring to witness the real connections we’re building and the doors we’re opening for those doing it tough,” he said.

“Stories like Jordan and Katie’s remind us that our support doesn’t just make a difference – it creates lasting change and brighter futures.”

Stephanie De Campo commended the players for their ongoing contributions, both through financial support and their continued involvement as staff, mentors, volunteers, and board directors.

"These vital funds play a crucial role in sustaining our programs. This generous contribution, combined with the players' active involvement enables us to continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of young Australians in need,” she said.

“Whether it's helping them access safe housing, develop independence, secure employment, or pursue education, the players are driving social change well beyond the game.”

AFLPA Interim CEO, Ben Smith, recognised the legacy and impact that players have had on the charity since its inception in 2007.

"Our members are proud to give a portion of every match payment they earn to this worthy cause, through the AFL Players' Care initiative. Established by three AFL players nearly two decades ago and supported annually by all AFL and AFLW players, the work Ladder does to support young people is life changing." he said.

Ladder Alumni Jordan McCallum first joined the Ladder program in 2018, on a negative life trajectory experiencing both depression and unemployment. Reflecting on his experience since being in the program seven years ago, he believes Ladder saved his life.

Jordan has been living independently, enjoying life and has been a Diesel Mechanic and employed since 2020 at a transport logistics service, which stemmed from a job taster he completed during his Ladder program.

“If it wasn’t for the life skills Ladder taught me, I wouldn’t be here today. It’s as simple as that. Before Ladder, I was doing dodgy things and ruining my life. Ladder was like an injection for the other side,” Jordan said.

When fellow alumni Katie Ronaldson came to Ladder, she was facing multiple challenges. She had no safe place to call home and was struggling to find a way forward. She wasn’t just seeking shelter, she needed guidance, stability, and support to pursue her goal of securing long-term employment and building a better future.

Katie is now achieving her goals and creating the stability she once only hoped for through the continued, tailored support from Ladder.

“In my experience Ladder for me has been unique, supportive and very life changing,” said Katie.

AFL and AFLW players as well as the entire industry are getting behind Ladder’s AFL Finals Series campaign. Throughout September, Ladder will be selling official 2025 AFL Premiership Cup pins to raise awareness and vital funds to support their programs. To find out more, visit ladder.org.au/premiership-cup-pins