When Bear Cottage was invited to contribute children and family artwork for a special celebratory NSW Waratahs game on Friday, 22 May, excitement quickly spread around the art table.
Guided by Bear Cottage Art Therapist Judy, the project unfolded over several weeks and became a shared activity involving children, parents, staff, and volunteers. Together, everyone selected different NSW Waratahs players to draw, paint and colour, creating unique headshots full of personality and imagination.
The art sessions quickly became lively and engaging, with plenty of friendly rivalry around different football codes and passionate rugby discussions between family members - particularly the dads. One father sat alongsidehis son creating colourful player portraits together. As the father became more adventurous, adding rainbow jerseys and mismatched eye colours, his son enthusiastically followed his lead. Their shared creativity and camaraderie became a lovely part of the experience.
When children and siblings learned their artwork might appear on television - and even on the giant screen during the game - the excitement grew even more. Music filled the room as families spent happy hours researching players, learning about positions on the field and bringing each portrait to life in their own way.
Judy reflected that, having grown up in the UK where football meant a “round ball,” she was fascinated by how much enthusiasm this “pointy ball” game inspired families from all walks of life. For her, it became a reminder of how creativity and sport can come together to create connection, joy, and shared experiences.
The fun extended beyond the player portraits, with children and families also helping decorate Bear Cottage in preparation for the NSW Waratahs’ visit. The morning became affectionately known as “Tah Time.” One pair of brothers carefully coloured in the NSW Waratahs logo and created artwork for the walls, while another child’s painted handprints were incorporated around a large rugby ball, capturing the feeling of a pass in motion.
The project brought moments of laughter, creativity and togetherness to Bear Cottage, and everyone involved was proud to play a small part in celebrating the NSW Waratahs in such a meaningful and imaginative way.
Written by Judy, Art Therapist at Bear Cottage
