Knights support Surfers for Autism

Newcastle Knights captain Kurt Gidey volunteered his time to the second annual Surfers for Autism Beach Festival at Nobby's Beach on Saturday.

Approached as part of his Captain's Foundation, Gidley recruited the help of teammates, Jarrod Mullen, Chris Hoston and Tyrone Roberts, who together taught some very excited kids how to surf.

Surfers for Autism is a not for profit organisation dedicated to the introduction of surfing  to children with special needs.

"It is good to see so many kids down here in a relaxed environment, they all have smiles on their faces so it is a pretty special day for them," Gidley said

"Surfing is something they probably wouldn't normally do on the weekend with their families so it is a great experience for them.

"I have a little daughter myself and it can be tough on the parents so days like this puts a smile on the kids faces but also on the parents faces as well."

Ground announcer for the Knights Glen Hawke knows all too well the struggles of bringing up a child with Autism and said it meant a lot to have the Knights come down and support the event.

"I know the guys do a lot of things for kids in Newcastle and it is great to have them come down here and jump in the water," Hawke said.

"Them being here has a attracted a lot more kids to the event because these guys are their heroes and it is enormous to have them on the beach mixing with the kids.

"And it is great that the players understand and appreciate what it means to the kids."