This Saturday’s Carlton v North Melbourne match at the MCG won’t just be about AFL ladder points.
It will also mark the return of The Underdogs, a joint initiative from 101.9 The Fox’s Fifi, Fev & Nick breakfast team and the Carlton Football Club, designed to give 22 kids experiencing hardship a moment in the sporting spotlight.
The kids, many of whom have experienced bullying, illness or social exclusion, will take to the field before the 1:20pm bounce, welcomed by Fox presenters Brendan Fevola, Fifi Box and Nick Cody, alongside returning waterboy Andy Lee.
Building emotional connections through broadcast and sport
Over the past fortnight, the Fifi, Fev & Nick show has spotlighted some of the kids’ stories, including that of 11-year-old Jordan from Curlewis, who was left traumatised by a bullying incident and was too scared to return to school.
On the day, the children will be treated to a locker room transformation, including personalised guernseys, boots, and gift packs, and receive a motivational address from Fox Footy’s Jonathan Brown.
They’ll also visit the Fox Footy commentary box before being honoured on the official Carlton team banner and running onto the field to kick the footy in front of a packed crowd.
Carlton captain Patrick Cripps said the moment is as special for the players as it is for the children. “This is the stuff I love to do as an AFL player, to give back to the community,” he said. “These kids will get a moment they won’t forget and hopefully it builds confidence and self-esteem.”
A multi-platform moment for media and brands
Fans wanting to attend the game can use the code Underdogs via Ticketek for 30% off, as Carlton also celebrates its Cultural Heritage Series game. Full coverage of The Underdogs will air on Fifi, Fev & Nick (weekdays 6–9am) on 101.9 The Fox, with catch-up listening available via the LiSTNR app.
This year’s Underdogs team includes: Adeline, Andi, Braxton, Dallas, Declan, Ebony, Hailey, Harley, Harry, Hendrix, Hugo, Ivie, Jordan, Josh, Liam, Logan, Ryder, Sebastian, Sienna, Xander, Xavier and Zion.