Joe McConnell | AFLDD Media
The first thing you notice about the University Cougars under-14s team when they take the field is how multicultural they are.
With a squad of nearly 30 players, the Cougars will have over 20 Sudanese kids participating in the 2014 campaign.
University under-14s head coach Rod Brown has welcomed the new talent with open arms and says the diversification of his team is an added strength.
“We have found that the Sudanese have fit into our footy community very well,” Brown said.
“Not only do the kids love playing, but the parents are also becoming more involved now as well. We hope to continue the support over the coming years,” he said.
The main source of Sudanese interest in AFL has come through the likes of Ross Savill, an associate pastor at Humeridge Church who specialises in youth ministry.
Mr Savill has promoted the hallowed sport of Aussie Rules to the youth at his church for a number of years and the Sudanese have literally ran to the game.
Coach Brown says that it has been a domino effect, with more and more participating each year.
“It started out with maybe two or three (Sudanese) playing. And then they told their friends, who told their friends, who told their friends,” Brown said.
“We had about 24 play on our under-14 team last year and many have moved up to the under-16s now,” he said.
The Cougars will need all the help they can get as they face the two time reigning champion Coolaroo Roos to begin their season.
Coach Brown is looking forward to a hard fought matchup between two talented teams.
“I’m expecting a good solid game and a game workout for the boys,” said Brown.
“We’ve been training five or six weeks leading up to the game. With the talent we have I think we’ll go very well this year,” he said.
The University Cougars will play the Coolaroo Roos Saturday March 29 at 11am on the USQ AFL Oval.
Photo: University Cougars AFC Under 14's training at USQ AFL Ovals (University AFC Facebook Page)
Last Modified on 08/04/2014 11:38