Sydney Swan Nicholas Smith chats to young fan Callum Taylor.
HUNDREDS of primary school students had a chance to learn from Sydney Swan stars at a hands-on AFL workshop held in Wingham last week.
Sydney Swan players Nick Smith and Alex Brown visited Wingham’s Central Park where more than 300 students from Wingham Public, Wingham Brush and St Joseph’s schools joined in on the action.
Nick made his debut in 2008 and played in the 2012 grand final. He was named most-improved player, finishing sixth in the best and fairest. Alex is making his debut this year.
The senior players visited a number of schools in the area and spoke about the importance of doing well in school and having good nutrition, and spread the message that all sports are good sports.
They gave an exciting insight into their professional football careers and led activities which taught students the basic skills of AFL like kicking and passing the ball.
“It’s really good to see kids outdoors playing sport, running about and being active,” Alex said.
The two players remember their primary school days well. Junior AFL games were an important part of their weekend routine since the age of six.
AFL Auskick centre co-ordinator, Julie McLachlan said the visit from Nick and Alex is great for the sport in the area as it gives the code star factor and a face children can identify with.
“Once the students have met a player they often follow them throughout their journey,” she said.
Taree AFL Auskick caters for five to 12-year-olds and teaches the fundamental skills of AFL through modified games.
Julie said AFL appeals to many families and players as it is held at the same place (Johnny Martin Oval), at the same time each Sunday.
A free come and try day will be held on Sunday March 17 at the Taree Rec Grounds adjacent to Rotary Park from 10am to noon.
More come and try days will be held on March 10 between 10am and noon at Tuncurry Sports Complex and Athletics Oval and on March 24 between 10am and noon at Johnny Martin Oval, Macquarie Street Taree.
Registration is currently being held. Each child who registers to play this year will receive an Auskick fun pack filled with goodies. For more information call 6553 3345.
