The opening round of the 2025 AFL season was made even more special for young people from Ladder’s Western Sydney program, as they took part in the GWS GIANTS Guard of Honour for the team’s blockbuster clash against Collingwood.

Standing proudly on the field, the Ladder participants soaked in the electric atmosphere as anticipation built for the GIANTS’ entrance. The sense of tradition, camaraderie, and community, so deeply embedded in Australian Rules Football, was on full display as they prepared to welcome the players onto the ground.

18-year-old Ben captured the excitement before the game, saying, “I can’t wait. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, I’m so excited.” He expressed his gratitude for the GIANTS' support of Ladder participants in Western Sydney, stating, “It’s so special what the GIANTS do for us. Getting to meet the GWS GIANTS over the years, is a crazy experience.” When asked if he would have had this opportunity without Ladder, Ben responded loudly and proudly, “Heck no!”

Reflecting on the moment, Ben later shared, “As we waited for the GIANTS to run out, you could feel the excitement building. As the players ran past us, we were all screaming and cheering them on. It was incredible, something I will never forget.”

20-year-old Alumni Member Tiago has attended many of the life-changing opportunities the GIANTS have provided our program participants in the past, including end of year celebrations, open training sessions, club visits, invitations to matches and last year was a part of the GWS GIANTS Foundations 3 GIANTS PEAK trek. Tiago shared ‘It is always exciting to be a part of GIANTS events, it feels like a big family, supporting us and giving us a chance in life’

After the Guard of Honour, participants had front-row seats to an unforgettable showdown, witnessing the GIANTS’ victory over Collingwood. The resilience, determination, and unwavering support from both teams embodied everything Ladder stands for—giving every young person the chance to rise to every challenge, stand strong, and lift others up along the way. It’s a legacy deeply rooted in our beginnings, founded by AFL players and built on the values that define the game.

"We are so thankful to the GWS GIANTS for providing such meaningful and unforgettable opportunities with our Western Sydney program participants over the years. Players have the power to make a real difference with Ladder and it’s so important that we continue to create positive experiences like these, so our young people can grow up to be resilient adults.” said Stephanie De Campo, Ladder CEO.  

A huge thank you to our incredible community partner, the GWS GIANTS, and Ladder Board Director Alicia Eva for making this opportunity possible. The experiences the GIANTS provide our young people are truly once-in-a-lifetime moments that help them recognise their importance, value, and potential. These opportunities reinforce the power of connection, belonging, and belief in oneself, values at the heart of Ladder’s mission.

"It was great to be able to provide our Ladder young people from Western Sydney such an experience and we thank them for their support! We are proud to continue to support Ladder and look forward to seeing them in at the club again soon." said Alicia Eva.

Ladder is proud to work alongside the GIANTS in supporting young people in Western Sydney and is honoured to be the official charity of the AFL Players’ Association. Together, we are helping young people in need build confidence, resilience, and a bright future.