SUNS International Program for Students (SIPS)

2013 will see the Gold Coast SUNS unveil another new and exciting program this time in the area of International Students, New migrants and Refugees.

The Gold Coast SUNS International Program (SIPS) is a social inclusion program designed to use AFL as a means to integrate International Students, New Migrants and refugees into the wider Gold Coast Community. Similar to our Multicultural Schools Program, which in 2012 alone successfully engaged over 800 culturally diverse children, SIPS will aim to improve access to AFL for all people whether as a player, umpire or fan.

As part of this program each registered participant will receive:

• A free ticket to a Gold Coast SUNS home match
• The chance to meet GC SUNS players
• Help the SUNS Screamers make the banner for match day
• Opportunity to become an Umpire which is a great way to earn some money
• With our partnership with the Gold Coast City Council Surf lifesaving we will also offer beach safety sessions

To help drive social inclusion the GC SUNS will provide all participants with information about the many community events that they support such as Family Fun Days, Community Fairs, Festivals and many other key community events throughout the year.

The GC SUNS are working hard to make AFL a vehicle that will encourage equality, respect and acceptance in order to strengthen the Gold Coast community. To do this the program has focused on three key areas to help achieve this goal:

Positive Form of Social inclusion

• There are thousands of international students, new migrants and refugees coming to the Gold Coast each year and engaging this culturally diverse community will allow them to integrate and develop stronger bonds with the Gold Coast Community.
• Involving participants in various Community events.
• Provide sustainable participation opportunities.

Participation

• Showcase Australia’s national sport by offering all participants an opportunity to see the GC SUNS in action at Metricon Stadium
• Invite program participants to play at local clubs or in social AFL 9’s competitions
• Become involved in Umpiring which is great way to earn money and stay active

Education

• Offer Beach Safety sessions with our partnership with the Gold Coast City Council
• Information on coaching accreditation sessions
• AFL Skills sessions that focus on leadership, encouragement and teamwork

If you are new to Australia and would like to be a part of the Gold Coast SUNS, please contact Multicultural Programs Officer Michael Gugliotta on msp@goldcoastfc.com.au or phone (07) 5510 6007.

International Students, register your details here to receive up to 2 complimentary tickets to a regular season match at Metricon Stadium in the 2013 season!