Now in his sixth year as an ambassador with the Windgap Foundation, Assistant Coach Matt King's ties are as strong as ever after his latest visit to their Eastlakes factory.
The Windgap Foundation is a not for profit organisation, started by a group of parents over 65 years ago to provide education and employment opportunities to children with intellectual disabilities.
Matt was still an NRL player when he was approached by the organisation back in 2014, a time when they were seeking an ambassador to assist in raising awareness and spreading Windgap's mission to the wider community.
The path that led to their relationship began in 2011, when King was a member of the Warrington Wolves football club in the Super League.
"My ties with Windgap stem back to when my daughter Charlie was born," King said to Roosters Digital.
"The doctor's in the United Kingdom thought that she may have down syndrome, so my Wife and I got a really good insight into what parents go through when they're told that their children may be born with an intellectual disability.
"In 2012, I shaved off my mop (hair) and raised some money for Down Syndrome NSW.
"Windgap heard about it and asked me if I'd be interested to get involved, which I was absolutely stoked with.
"Selfishly, I think I get more out of my visits then the guys that I'm visiting."
On his latest visit, Matt took fellow Assistant Coach Nathan Cayless and Head Physiotherapist Steph Brennan to spend a couple of hours at the factory with the friendly staff.
They brought some Sydney Roosters signed team posters, took some pictures, had a chat and even offered some assistance by packing a few boxes.
Matt generally likes to rotate who he brings along on his visits, whether that be players, staff or family members.
"It's good for anyone to get down there and rub shoulders with those guys.
"Angus and Butch came down at the end of last year with the Premiership trophy which was really cool.
"It's a really great association and I just love spending time there."
To find out more about the Windgap Foundation and how you can get involved, head to their website.
