The Fox’s Underdogs take centre court at John Cain Arena

Fifi, Fev & Nick’s Underdogs have returned to centre court at Melbourne’s John Cain Arena, playing a half-time game during Sunday’s NBL clash between Melbourne United and the Illawarra Hawks.

Now in its third year, and second basketball edition, the Fox FM initiative supports primary school-aged children who’ve experienced exclusion due to illness, bullying or personal hardship.

On February 15, selected participants formed a guard of honour for Melbourne United before playing in front of a sold-out crowd – running out on the court with The Fox Breakfast team of Fifi Box, Brendan ‘Fev’ Fevola and Nick Cody.

For many, it was their first time being part of a sporting team.

Parents watched from the sidelines in tears as their children experienced a life-changing moment.

Fifi gave a shout out to the brave parents who phoned in to The Fox, saying: “We know how hard that was to pick up the phone and sometimes you need to reach out to people that can feel or relate to what you’re going through. No child will ever be ignored or left out on our watch!”

The Underdogs also met Melbourne United players and received Reebok sneakers as part of the experience.

View this post on Instagram

 

Speaking on-air the following morning, Fifi reflected on the impact of the initiative, while Ian – a Melbourne United fan who attended the game -phoned in to describe the atmosphere inside the arena.

“We were at the game yesterday, and it wasn’t just the parents of the kids who were emotional. My wife and I probably cheered more at half time than we did during the game!”

“My wife was cheering and pointing out the kids. When Fev picked the little kid up to get closer to the ring, my wife was jumping up and down … it was absolutely amazing. I’ll tell you now: there’s a special place in heaven for the three of you. The stuff you do like this, it’s not for ratings or a cash grab, it’s not for the adults … it’s purely for the kids. It’s actually giving back … I’m actually getting a bit emotional. It’s amazing to see.”

Listen to Fifi, Fev & Nick on Melbourne’s 101.9 The Fox from 6-9am weekdays, also on LiSTNR.

Images supplied.