Making change: Pat Cronin’s death from a coward punch has inspired a legacy of anti-violence advocacy.
The Pat Cronin Foundation will work with Shepparton students to advocate against the coward punch.
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Greater Shepparton Secondary College will be among schools participating in the organisation’s anti-violence program, with more than 600 students in Years 9 and 10 participating in six sessions on Monday, June 6 and Tuesday, June 7.
The foundation was established following the death of 19-year-old Pat Cronin from a coward punch attack while on a night out in 2016 and aims to help young people avoid violence by making wise decisions.
“We’re looking forward to bringing the Be Wise program to Shepparton, as schools here join others throughout the state embracing this important preventative initiative,” foundation director Matt Cronin, the father of Pat, said.
“We know that thousands of people are hospitalised each year in Australia due to assault. There are often many tragic lifelong consequences for the victims, as well as the perpetrators and families.
“By giving young people everywhere an understanding of Pat’s story, raising awareness of the impact of violence and offering practical tips and strategies to deal with anger and aggression, we hope to reduce those alarming statistics.”
Be wise: Matt Cronin, Pat’s father, is advocating to end the coward punch.
A college spokesperson said the Be Wise program aligned with the school’s values.
“Our social and emotional curriculum assists our students in building their emotional literacy and ability to self-regulate, and helping young people to acknowledge their feelings is an important component of that,” the spokesperson said.
“We also take a proactive approach to educating our students on community issues such as violence, the road toll, and the impact of discrimination. We believe the Be Wise presentation is both engaging and thought-provoking.”
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