After a successful inaugural year, we’re thrilled to announce that registrations have again opened for our ARA First Nations Foundations.
The first trial date in Sydney is Saturday, 14 October at Henson Park, ahead of the Sydney Swans AFLW game against Hawthorn.
Further trials will be held in Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Central Coast and Shellharbour.
The 10-week sporting program aims to increase participation and involvement of First Nations People right across our game, from playing to coaching and administration, as well as identify those with the physical capabilities and character to become high-performing athletes.
Following last year’s program, 21 First Nation’s athletes were selected to advance to the QBE Sydney Swans Academy.
The program incorporates mental health and cultural education sessions with strategically planned technical and tactical training led by experienced staff. It’s delivered in a culturally safe and inclusive environment, fostering a greater sense of belonging and connection to AFL and the broader Sydney Swans family.
The parent of one of last year’s participants said:
“This program has helped our kids to smile again and start to take steps in being proud of who they are”.
Sydney Swans CEO Tom Harley said the club is proud to be building on the work from year one of the program.
“The ARA First Nations Foundations is an opportunity for us to engage not only the kids, but their broader communities. I’m excited to see the potential stars of tomorrow flourish and reach their potential,” Harley said.
“We would like to thank ARA for its support to help make the program possible.”
Format
- First Nations boys and girls aged 10 – 17
- 9 x training sessions
- 1 x camp bringing all centres together
- Mental health education sessions
- Cultural inclusion
- Online personal development
Eligibility
- ARA First Nations Foundations is open to boys and girls aged 10 – 17 years who identify as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.
- To be eligible for the QBE Sydney Swans Academy, applicants must be endorsed by program staff, with both physical and personal qualities being considered.
Trial Dates
- Sydney – Saturday, October 14, 11:30am – 1:00pm. Henson Park, Centennial Street, Marrickville
- Coffs Harbour – Monday, October 23, 5:00pm – 6:30pm. Fitzroy Oval, Coff Street, Coffs Harbour
- Port Macquarie – Tuesday, October 24, 5:00pm – 6:30pm. Wayne Richards Park, Koala Street, Port Macquarie
- Central Coast/Hunter – Thursday, October 26, 5:00pm – 6:30pm. Adelaide Street Oval, Adelaide Street, Tumbi Umbi
- Shellharbour – Friday, October 27, 5:00pm – 6:30pm. Myimbarr Oval/Fields, Wattle Road, Shellharbour
