Stepping Up for At-Risk Youth Through NSWRL’s Changing Rooms

Representatives from six registered Western Sydney clubs recently came together to show their collective support for NSWRL’s Changing Rooms program. As part of this commitment, the group visited the NSWRL Centre of Excellence to see the initiative in action.

Among those in attendance was CEO Glenn Kovacs. During the visit, he witnessed firsthand the program’s impact on participants. Following this experience, the clubs committed to supporting a pilot delivery of Changing Rooms. In turn, this support will help expand its reach and deliver life-changing outcomes for at-risk young people across the region.

Founded in 2019 by former NSW Blues player Paul Langmack, the program tackles key challenges facing young people. Specifically, these include bullying, social media pressures, decision-making, and mental fitness.

Last year, NSWRL partnered with Police Youth Command to launch a targeted pilot initiative for at-risk young people. Importantly, the program aligns with the clubs’ long-standing commitment to positive community impact. More recently, it concluded a condensed school holiday edition at the NSWRL Centre of Excellence.

The results have already been significant. For example, participants from last year’s intake reduced school suspensions from eight to zero. At the same time, negative behavioural incidents dropped by 48 per cent.

The program focuses on discipline, resilience, sound decision-making, and mentorship. In many cases, participants lack strong family structures or consistent positive role models. As a result, when challenges arise, some fall into repeated behaviours. However, the program reinforces that mistakes are part of learning. More importantly, it shows young people how to move forward with confidence and accountability.

By the end of the program, participants are more engaged with police and facilitators. Consequently, they build stronger relationships with everyone involved. In addition, school attendance improves. Students communicate more openly with teachers and discuss challenges at home. This, in turn, allows support services to step in where needed.

When the group arrived at the Centre of Excellence, the young participants personally thanked club representatives. Finally, they shook hands and expressed appreciation for the support shown toward the NSWRL’s Changing Rooms program.