AFL unveils Indigenous Future Stars program in Western Sydney
Written by Samantha McLaughlin
Western Sydney’s young First Nations AFL participants will have the opportunity to be part of a dedicated AFL program built on fitness, education and cultural experiences when the AFL Indigenous Future Stars initiative is rolled out this month.
Announced today, the Indigenous Future Stars is a free eight-week intensive program designed to give First Nations peoples aged 11 to 14 the opportunity to participate in a unique AFL program that blends AFL skills and fitness with cultural activities, education and wellbeing sessions.
Delivered in the Campbelltown and Blacktown local government areas, the Indigenous Future Stars has been designed in partnership with local school Aboriginal Education Officers and community organisations to ensure the program is tailored to the needs of the local community.
An introductory program, the Indigenous Future Stars is also supported by the GWS GIANTS and serves as an entry point for AFL talent discovery, laying the foundations for young First Nations athletes in Aussie Rules Football and opening the door to further development opportunities and pathways to excel in the sport.
As part of the GWS GIANTS support of the program, AFLW midfielder and proud Indigenous woman of Ningy Ningy descent Aliesha Newman will also lead key modules and sessions throughout the eight-week intensive.
Head of AFL NSW/ACT Andrew Varasdi said: “The Indigenous Future Stars is about more than just AFL – it’s a pathway that empowers young First Nations people to grow strong in mind, body, culture and community.
“Leaders from the Campbelltown and Blacktown LGAs have told us what their communities need to thrive. Through the Indigenous Future Stars, we’ve endeavoured to create a space that reflects these needs while embracing participants’ heritage and helping them master new skills on and off the field.
“Participants’ journey through the program will nurture not only their AFL talents, but cultural connection and sense of community, and we look forward to welcoming the first recruits of the Indigenous Future Stars into the program later this month.”
PCYC Campbelltown will host the Indigenous Future Stars program from Monday 20 October, while the Kimberwalli will be home to the program in Blacktown from Tuesday 21 October.
To apply, visit here.
