United face Hawks in inaugural LifeChanger Cup matchup

 The battle between the fourth-placed Melbourne United and third-placed Illawarra Hawks will carry some extra importance on Sunday afternoon.

The matchup will mark the first game of the inaugural LifeChanger Cup series between the two sides.

Founded in 2016, the LifeChanger Foundation is committed to addressing the challenges that youth face today  and creating a pathway to positive self-identity.  LifeChanger is a preventative mental health and wellbeing non-profit that empowers young people to live thriving, resilient lives.

Speaking to Melbourne United Media, forward Jack White says it means a lot of himself and his teammates to be a part of the initiative.

"As a team, we are excited to be a part of this great initiative and help shine a light on the important work the LifeChanger Foundation is doing.

"Especially in our current climate, making sure people are taking care of their mental health is crucial.

"As professional athletes, we want to use our platform to encourage young people to seek help if they need it through organisations like LifeChanger."

As part of the initiative, coaches from both teams will sport LifeChanger pins and QR codes will be set up around the WIN Entertainment Centre as a way for patrons to donate to the worthy cause.

Melbourne United CEO Nick Truelson said he is looking forward to the game and hopes his side and the Hawks can continue to work together in building the series moving forward.

“We are very proud of our partnership with LifeChanger given our focus on the community.

“LifeChanger Founder and CEO Scott Watters and his team have built a program that builds self esteem, self awareness , positive self identity and resilience in youth and we are focused on playing our role to help in each of these areas as well as growing the national awareness of the great work LifeChanger are doing everyday.

“The LifeChanger Cup is a fantastic new initiative between LifeChanger, Melbourne United and the Illawarra Hawks and we look forward to building this new series this season and into the future.”

Click here for more details or donate to LifeChanger.

Alternatively, if you or anyone else is experiencing hardship or if this has triggered you in any way and need of support, please reach out to:

Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
Kids Help Line: https://kidshelpline.com.au/
LifeLine: https://www.lifeline.org.au/