The sky’s the limit with MSWA and Perth Wildcats partnership renewal
MSWA and the Perth Wildcats are proud to announce the renewal of their partnership for a second consecutive year, bringing together the two iconic Western Australian organisations, united by a shared commitment to community, inclusion and making a meaningful difference.
Returning to RAC Arena for the fan-favourite Open Air Game in support of MSWA on Thursday 2 October, the Wildcats will raise awareness of the thousands of Western Australians living with neurological conditions.
Among those inspired by the partnership is MSWA Client, Andrew Grero, a talented Perth-based artist living with young onset Parkinson’s disease.
He is a proud member of the ‘Red Army’ – the Wildcat’s dedicated fan base, his love for the sport ignited in his early childhood watching Wildcats legends such as Ricky Grace and James Crawford.
Some of my first memories are sitting down with my family around the living room TV, watching the Wildcats play in the 1990 finals. I remember my dad taking me to the airport to see the players when they flew home and I can’t wait to create the same memories with my son as he grows up.”
30 years on, Andrew has his murals and artworks scattered across Perth, with his love for the Wildcats continuing to shine through. He was commissioned to create artwork for the team’s 40th Anniversary Ball and continues to pursue his passion for art with the support of MSWA’s supports and services.
With access to MSWA’s specialised teams, he is empowered to live a life of independence and creativity – embodying their tagline of ‘Life not limits’.
Andrew, who last year delivered his largest ever artwork – a 23m x 7m mural in Bassendean, continued,
Being diagnosed in 2023 was a life-changing moment, but I refused to let it define me. I have instead chosen to use my art to document my story and raise money for charities, like MSWA, that provide invaluable support for people living with a neurological condition, like myself.”
“My family and I have had brilliant support from MSWA, from the Counselling and Dietetics teams to the Employment Support Services team, who helped me to continue to work.”
Debra Packer, MSWA General Manager – Brand, Experience and Community added: “Supporting people with neurological conditions to continue to do what they love is at the core of MSWA. Through our supports and services teams, we aim to reduce the limits they can face every day, and with partnerships such as these, we not only raise awareness for our cause, but also create meaningful opportunities and lifelong memories.
“This partnership is about more than basketball – it’s about connection, inclusion, and celebrating the strength of the WA community – who have always been so supportive of MSWA through our fundraising events and activities such as the MSWA Mega Home Lottery.
“We’re proud to stand alongside the Wildcats and their Red Army once again.”
Mark Arena, Perth Wildcats Owner shared: “The Open Air Game is one of the highlights of our season and having MSWA at the heart of it gives the night even greater meaning. We deeply value the incredible work MSWA does to support West Australians living with neurological conditions and stories like Andrew’s remind us that this game is about more than basketball - it’s about celebrating resilience, creativity and community, and honouring those who carry the Red Army spirit through their lives.”
The Open Air Game in support of MSWA promises to be even bigger, with more opportunities for fans to get involved and support MSWA’s mission – tickets to the game are on sale now via Ticketek.
In addition to being a mad basketball fan, Andrew is also looking to leverage his artistic talent to raise awareness of the conditions and daily challenges of living with Parkinson's.
He is rapidly developing his small art business across Western Australia, focusing primarily on paintings and mural commissions and has recently entered the next phase with the launch of his new website and online art shop: https://aerogrero.com/.
A range of limited-edition screen-printed t-shirts and hoodies are also available to pre-order until the end of September, with all profits raised from these items set to be donated to MSWA.
“I really wanted to give something back to MSWA and the community. My passion is to inspire others through quality art and reframe the idea of what it means to live and thrive with Parkinson’s,” concluded Andrew.
