Canterbury’s favourite rugby team took time out of their busy schedule in March to put smiles on the faces of 125 Christchurch children.

The GIB® Crusaders Kids Day gave youngsters the chance to get up close and personal with their greatest heroes –and build some great skills in the process.

From obstacle courses and ball games to a tug-of-war and some one-on-one time with their favourite players, big kids and small were treated to a day to remember.

Held at Rugby Park in Christchurch, the event is one of the many ways Winstone Wallboards engages with, and gives back to, the local community. Opportunities for photos and autographs were plentiful, there were gifts and goody bags galore – and the young supporters even got to touch the cup!

But perhaps even more importantly, children were able to celebrate the teams’ success – and learn more about the kind of resilience it takes to deal with loss. Vital capabilities, not only in the sporting world, but in life generally.

“Today was awesome, really fun, and I just loved meeting the players,” says Crusaders fan, Piper Wilson. “I’ve been a fan for as long as I can remember, because they win, they’re amazing, they’re kind, and they’re just awesome.”

The Garden City has been through some tough times, and the GIB® Crusaders Kids Day was a meaningful way for Winstone Wallboards to help inspire, motivate and support the city’s youngest residents.