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It was a night to remember at Kurrajong-Bilpin Little Athletics Centre on Friday, November, as weeks of mystery and anticipation were finally revealed — and the special guest did not disappoint.
Young athletes, families and volunteers were thrilled when NRL player Corey Waddell made a surprise appearance as part of Coles Community Round, bringing excitement, energy and inspiration to the local athletics community.
A former junior athlete himself, Waddell wasted no time getting involved, pulling on a KBLAC singlet and joining children across the track and field. From sprinting alongside the juniors to participating in events, signing autographs and posing for photos, the NRL forward made a lasting impression with his down-to-earth attitude and enthusiasm.
The visit followed several weeks of playful clues and guesses shared across KBLAC’s social media, building anticipation among members eager to uncover the identity of the mystery guest. The reveal was met with cheers and excitement, creating a high-energy atmosphere that carried through the entire evening.
“The kids really enjoyed the night, and we are so grateful for Corey’s time and energy,” a KBLAC spokesperson said. “It was such a joy seeing a professional athlete come back to grassroots sport and give back in such a genuine way.”
Parents and volunteers also praised the visit, noting the positive impact of seeing a professional athlete engage directly with young competitors and reinforce the importance of community sport.
Coles Community Round aims to celebrate grassroots sporting clubs across Australia, highlighting the vital role they play in fostering participation, teamwork and healthy lifestyles. For KBLAC, the surprise visit was a powerful reminder of how local sport can shape future pathways and unforgettable memories.
The evening concluded with smiling faces, tired legs and plenty of stories to share, as young athletes left inspired by the message that big dreams can begin on local tracks.
