Starlight Ambassador since 2017
"I love visiting the Starlight Express Room because it really puts a smile on the kids' faces in hospital and it definitely puts a smile on mine." - Jed Holloway
International rugby union player Jed Holloway is known for his determination and passion on and off the field. After a contract with Toyota Verblitz in Japan, Jed is now back home playing again with the NSW Waratahs, and will be joining the Wallabies for the 2022 season.
Jed attributes this fighting spirit to his cousin Liam, who was sadly diagnosed with leukaemia at age nine. The two were very close growing up and Jed says Liam was like a brother to him.
"He was a good mentor and had that never-give-up attitude. Liam fought the illness until he was 20 years old when it finally got the better of him," Jed said.
In Liam's legacy, Jed has inspired many young players on and off the field and has personally been a tireless supporter of Starlight.
He said it was an honour to become an Ambassador for an organisation so close to his heart.
"Starlight supported Liam for a very long time. Having seen what a difference Starlight made to my family, I was keen to become more involved."
Despite his demanding training schedule, Jed is a regular visitor to the Starlight Express Room at the Sydney Children's Hospital in Randwick.
Jed is always a hit with the kids and he says the highlight of any visit is seeing the impact Starlight has on kids and families brightening their long days in hospital.
He especially loves bringing in the NSW Waratahs for a Christmas performance in the Starlight Express Room. The team’s dance moves are as well-known as their on-field moves!
"I love visiting the Starlight Express Room because it really puts a smile on the kids' faces. It's so rewarding seeing how much the kids enjoy the fun, especially at Christmas."
Jed has also joined in Starlight Extravaganzas sharing his rugby talents with Starlight kids and families. He said he loves being involved with Starlight and knowing that he’s helped make a kid's day just that little bit brighter.
We'd like to say a very big thank you to Jed for his dedication and enthusiasm as a Starlight Ambassador.
ABOUT: Jed's impressive rugby career began as a junior club player and he went on to be selected for the Australian Schoolboys side in 2010. He was named Shute Shield Rookie of the Year in 2012 and made his professional rugby debut in 2013. He represented Australia in the Under 20's and in 2013 was offered his first professional contract with the NSW Waratahs for who he played for until 2020. In 2021, Jed commenced a contract with Toyota Verblitz in Japan. Jed is now back home playing with the NSW Waratahs, and has also been selected for the Wallabies 2022 season.