The Gold Coast SUNS last venture into Northern New South Wales saw the then VFL side receive a warm reception from the area’s four junior clubs.
Skip forward twenty 24 and there are now eight, very healthy junior clubs competing in a strong local competition.
The news is music to the ears of the young Gold Coast SUNS players who have for the past two days taken part in a series of super clinics, dinners, school visits and autograph sessions, all designed to raise awareness of the code and encourage the regions youngsters to give AFL a go through either Auskick or the various age group competitions.
For Coach Guy McKenna it’s a particularly pleasing result, given he led the early pilgrimages to the region.
“Football on the Gold Coast has really spread to the Northern Rivers and to see the influx of junior footballers has been fantastic.”
It was a similar story in Lismore where Karmichael Hunt proved a massive hit with the locals who seem to have very much embraced the national code, Hunt revelling in his role as ‘king of the kids’.
“It’s just about getting out amongst the community and obviously spreading the word about AFL.”
“We’ve just spent time chewing the fat with them, having a chat and answering a few questions.”
When it comes to trying their hand at a new sport, there is no doubting Karmichael’s passion for the Gold Coast SUNS and AFL carries real weight with the regions youngsters.
“Me saying that I’m enjoying the game and enjoying the challenge I think has been enough for some of the kids.”
Captain Gary Ablett knows all too well the importance of visits like these to areas that may not have the same exposure to elite sport or athletes as their city cousins.
“Some of the kids out here don’t even know what AFL footy is, so to be able to get out there, chuck a footy in their hands and put a smile on their faces is something that is pretty special and I know that it was something that was pretty special to me as a kid so it’s good to be able to get out there and return the favour.”
The players return to the Gold Coast this afternoon to recommence preparations for the opening round of the NAB Cup at Metricon Stadium on Saturday, February 25.
