The Cats are throwing their support behind local aspiring footballers by encouraging young indigenous and multicultural players to get involved in the upcoming trials for AFL Victoria's Kickstart and All Nations programs.
The purpose of Kickstart is to increase the participation of Indigenous footballers in the TAC Cup program, therefore providing them with the best chance at progressing into the AFL.
Now in it’s eighth year, the program has helped many young Victorian talents, such as Jay Kennedy-Harris, Jarman Impey and Jade Gresham, launch their careers.
The All Nations program, which is four years old, is based on the Kickstart model.
However, it targets participants that are born overseas and encourages those to get involved in the TAC Cup program.
Both programs heavily incorporate culture and identity into football, and use the game as a vehicle to promote awareness in participation, health, education and employment to Indigenous communities.
Geelong players Mark Blicavs and Esava Ratugolea are encouraging players to show up, have a go and see it as a chance to grow diversity in the game. Photo credit: Al Packer - krockfootball.com.au
AFL Victoria, AFL Barwon and the Geelong Cats are hoping to encourage as many eligible participants to the trials as possible. The trials will also help AFL Barwon and the Geelong Cats Next Gen Academy programs identify talented Indigenous and Multicultural talent.
Geelong academy coach Paul Hood will be in attendance at the trials and has encouraged local players to come along.
“We're keen to see the kids try out for Kickstart and All Nations and are really excited to see as many new faces as possible on February 15," Hood said.
“We're also hoping to see many of them in our Next Generation Academy programs in the coming months."
ALL THE DETAILS
What: AFL Victoria Kickstart & All Nations Program Trials
Where: Deakin University - Elite Sports Precinct (Soccer Pitch)
When: Wednesday February 15th, 2017
Time: 4pm – 6pm (a BBQ will be provided after the trials)
