Swans players joined NSW Minister for Sport, Multiculturalism, Seniors and Veterans the Honorable John Sidoti MP for the fourth and final week of the Hurstville Dragons Auskick Program on Thursday.
The program is the first of its kind and has been held at Hurstville Public School and has been widely attended by the multicultural community of Hurstville with many of the participants playing Australian Football for the first time.
The Hurstville Dragons Auskick Program has been supported by AFL Community Ambassadors who come from the Chinese community and are engaged with Australian Football.
Matt MA originally from Liaoyang in China, started playing in the AFL Sydney competition for Sydney University and is passionate about sharing the game he loves with the multicultural community of Hurstville.
“For me, Australian Football is more than a game, it is something that has allowed me to make friends and integrate into life here in Sydney. I believe in the power of sport for good and it is amazing to spread this great game with so many young children here in Hurstville playing for the very first time.”
With a focus on fun and skills development, the Hurstville Dragons Auskick Program gives young girls and boys the opportunity to learn the game in a fun, safe and inclusive environment.
AFL NSW/ACT State Manager for Government, Infrastructure and Diversity Anthony Brooks stressed the importance of this program in engaging with new communities.
“We strongly believe that our game is one where everyone is welcome, and we are delighted to engage with so many young girls and boys and their families from the Hurstville community.
“To see so many passionate AFL Community Ambassadors of Chinese background engaging with many first-time participants highlights the great possibilities that exist in our game as a vehicle for welcome.”
NSW Minister for Sport and Multiculturalism John Sidoti said the NSW Government was delighted to support the program with $75,000 through the Multicultural NSW COMPACT Program.
Hurstville Dragons Auskick Program Flies High Source: Matt King
“This program has established a first of its kind Auskick Centre primarily engaging students with Chinese backgrounds in the Hurstville area. They have embraced the great game of Aussie Rules and are kicking goals,” said Mr Sidoti.
“Sport is a great way to break down barriers and bring everyone together and I love this program which teaches students leadership and the importance of balancing school commitments with team sport.”
( Provided by AFL )
