Maria Edwards takes out One Community award

The NRL Rugby League One Community Awards were held in Sydney last night, as people from across the game celebrated the off-field achievements of the NRL’s ‘every day unsung heroes’.

Victorian Rugby League Inclusive Officer, Maria Edwards, was announced as the 2012 Harvey Norman Women in League Achievement Award winner.

Maria was nominated by Melbourne Storm for her fantastic efforts in helping youth at risk and various other programs of responsible choices through rugby league based education initiatives across the state.

Melbourne Storm CEO, Ron Gauci spoke highly of Maria’s work.

“The Youth Interaction Program (YIP) was designed and developed by Maria” said Gauci.

“Local enforcement officers actively take part in closing the gap between the youth and authority using the game of rugby league. Highlighting the value of her work adds to the community and this recognition was thoroughly deserved” he added

The Victorian Police and Victorian Blue Light have endorsed the program, which has achieved great success in three high schools in Werribee. The program has now been implemented in high schools in Dandenong, Cragieburn and Cranbourne.

Among the 350 guests from across all the NRL clubs attending the night was NSW Premier, the Hon. Barry O’Farrell, Deputy Opposition Leader, the Hon. Linda Burney MP, NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation, the Hon. Graham Annesley MP, and ARLC Chairman, Mr John Grant.

Melbourne Storm would like to congratulate Maria for winning the Women in League Achievement Award and wish her all the best as she continues her outstanding work in the community.