SPORTS stars rely on statistics to improve performance. Here's one Sydney FC takes seriously: One in 20 children has a genetic disease or birth defect.
In partnership with the Children's Medical Research Institute at Westmead, the football club aims to raise awareness of research into the conditions.
Marquee signing Brett Emerton and goalkeeper Liam Reddy, who each have two children, will be ambassadors for the institute.
"Spending time at the CMRI really opened my eyes to the great work that is done by extraordinary Australians trying to give all of us a better quality of life," Emerton said.
"The scientists doing this research are the real heroes, and it is very humbling to think that they go to work every day trying to work out how to save people's lives."
Institute executive director Roger Reddel said researchers and sports stars are not too different.
"Both operate in an international environment that is highly competitive, and require countless hours of practice, skilled coaching and intense motivation to succeed," Professor Reddel said.
Sydney FC raised more than $3000 at a recent game.
For more information visit www.cmri.org.au.
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