SA Auskick-ing its way to participation record

South Australia is helping drive national all-time high AFL participation numbers, breaking an NAB AFL Auskick participation record set only last year.

NAB AFL Auskick, which introduces kids from five years of age to footy in a weekly fun skills-based program, together with a brand new NAB AFL Superkick initiative, is helping to fuel increased participation across SA.

SANFL can announce that NAB AFL Auskick registrations in South Australia have reached a record 11,887, eclipsing last year’s benchmark of 11,866 which was the highest since 2019.

With registrations tracking 9 per cent higher than at the same time last year, the 2024 NAB AFL Auskick record is expected to climb to well beyond 12,000 by the end of the year with two terms remaining.

SANFL – which is responsible for delivering the NAB AFL Auskick program in SA – also has established more than 100 all-girls Auskick centres, helping to drive female registrations for the program by 12 per cent year-on-year.

The growth of NAB AFL Auskick in SA, together with the introduction this year of the NAB AFL Superkick program and continued efforts by SANFL and AFL to grow the game locally, has seen overall footy participation numbers, including player registrations, reach over 64,000 (year-to-date).

Specifically designed for children aged 7-12 years old, NAB AFL Superkick has been a big hit attracting more than 600 registrations in its first few weeks in SA, with that figure expected to double by the end of the year.

“This is a huge achievement for SANFL, the AFL and footy in South Australia,” said SANFL Executive General Manager Football Matt Duldig.

“It really does paint a bright picture for the future of footy in South Australia, with more young Auskickers, and now Superkick participants, playing footy than ever before.

“To see a continuing rise in the number of young girls pulling on the boots at Auskick, as well as the opportunity for kids with disability to get involved through programs like Wheelchair Auskick, shows that our game can be enjoyed by everyone.

“These entry level programs and providing more ways to play for young boys and girls are also extremely important to ensure our Community Club Football participation continues to thrive right across the State.”

AFL Executive General Manager of Game Development Rob Auld said he was delighted so many people are connecting with Australian Rules Football and actively participating in the game.

“On behalf of the AFL I’d like to thank every single registered participant who has played Australian rules footy this year, we’re incredibly proud and humbled that more than half a million Australians are actively involved in footy and love our game,” he said.

“From traditional ways to play such as NAB AFL Auskick and community footy, to the introduction of NAB AFL Superkick and drive to expand AFL Nines, we want to ensure we’re providing the best experiences and opportunities, so our game is open and accessible for everyone.

“It’s pleasing to see numbers remain strong and continue to grow in our footy heartland, especially South Australia.”