As the mighty Matildas continue to kick goals ‘‘til it’s done’, Endometriosis Australia have joined with South Australia’s premier solar company Go Sunny Solar, the Football South Australia major sponsor of the National Women’s Premier Leagues to raise of awareness and much needed funds for support resources and research into endometriosis, the incurable chronic inflammatory disorder affecting 1 in 9 Australian women, girls and some LBGTQI+ people.
According to Managing Director and CEO Dejan Nikolic (DJ) “Go Sunny Solar’s ethos is wanting to be more, do more and change the rules. That same ethos was a core reason as to why we wanted to support grassroots women’s football here in South Australia.” he said. “Endometriosis is such a prevalent condition – it’s more than likely you know at least a few women in your life affected by it. I am passionate about bringing awareness about this incurable disease, which is as common as diabetes and asthma. As with many “women’s health” conditions, it is still quite taboo, especially in masculinised industries like ours and in CALD communities. Raising awareness in football families and among girls and women players ensures we talk about it in diverse communities.”, he continued.
“It was a lightbulb moment when I realized we could use Go Sunny Solar’s existing reach, alongside the powerhouse of Football South Australia, to bring further awareness to women’s health, something often overlooked in many sports.” He said.
According to Endometriosis Australia CEO Maree Davenport, Endometriosis Australia is the peak body for endometriosis in Australia. “Our nationally accredited charity aims to empower patients and ensure they are not defined or limited by their disease, through a focus on improving the quality of life for individuals living with endometriosis and their families. Endometriosis Australia’s aim is to create a future where people with endometriosis can thrive and realise their full potential.” she said.
“After 10 years, Endometriosis Australia is making a tangible impact on the lives of those affected by endometriosis. The organisation provides a range of support resources tailored to meet the diverse needs of endometriosis patients. By offering a patient-centred approach, Endometriosis Australia ensures that individuals receive the support that best suits their unique circumstances.
Women in sport overcome many challenges, and the 1 in 9 living with endometriosis are true champions, navigating the challenges of sport and living with endo. In particular, I am thankful for the advocacy of sportswomen who lead by example, including Adelaide’s own Kayla Itsines, whose blog is inspirational, along with Endometriosis Australia Ambassadors including Olympians and world champions Emily Seebohm OAM, Australian snowboarder Holly Crawford, and ‘Endo Runner’ Kylie Brown. They work with us to raise the profile of the condition in the community.” she said.
Go Sunny Solar will be kicking off the Endometriosis Australia partnership by donating $250 for every goal scored during the final series to EA, AND we will be matching all donations made by the public via our channels up to $5000.
According to DJ, “Our entire team is so grateful to be able to align our success with giving back to the community. This is only the beginning of a long-lasting relationship between Go Sunny, Football SA and Endometriosis Australia.