AFL Victoria's 2010 Youth Girls Academy players attended over twenty Auskick centres this weekend as part of their Academy responsibilities this year.
The girls, working in small groups, visited eighteen different centres to promote the pathway that exists for girls in football. They ran drills, participated in games, answered questions and talked about their experiences playing the game. With around half of this year's Academy squad starting their football football at Auskick, this was a great opportunity for the girls to give something back to the development of the game. Their presence inspired girls to continue with the game and encouraged boys to support their female counterparts in the game.
Whilst it is hoped that 4000 girls will participate in Victorian Auskick centres this year, Victoria's overall female participation rate (7.9% in 2009) is way below that national average (approximately 18%). AFL Victoria will continue to send the Youth Girls Academy out to Auskick centres each year to encourage girls and their parents to stay in the game. Player appearances also help develop the Academy members' understanding of what it takes to provide opportunities for children in the game and gives them their first opportunity to coach the game.
if your Auskick centre would like a visit by an elite female player, contact AFL Victoria's State Auskick Manager, Michael Stinear (michael.stinear@aflvic.com.au - 8663 3013) for more information.
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Last Modified on 18/05/2010 14:37