Emerging SANFLW stars to feature in Indigenous and Multicultural Academies

6 June 2025

A number of emerging SANFLW stars are set to feature in the 2025 Girls Toyota AFL Indigenous and Multicultural Academies, starting this weekend.

The AFL Indigenous and Multicultural Academies comprise talented Indigenous and Multicultural footballers aged 16 to 18 years of age.

Erin Conn (Sturt), Demi Holloway (Central District), Jyearah Newchurch (Central District) and Sarcha Taylor (North Adelaide) will take part in the Indigenous Academy, whilst Miyu Endersby (Central District) and Gracie Sim (West Adelaide) will feature in the Multicultural Academy.

A highlight of the program will be a three-day camp held in Melbourne this weekend, which will feature a talent showcase matches between the Indigenous and Multicultural Academies.

Participants in the AFL Indigenous and Multicultural Academies complete a year-long program that encompasses monthly online development modules. Players also have access to additional learning and cultural support for the duration of the year.

The AFL’s social, emotional and cultural wellbeing framework has been integrated into the education modules.

Football masterclasses will be delivered by AFL and AFLW stars, including Norm Smith Medal winners Bobby Hill and Jason Johannisen, dual leading goal kicker Darcy Vescio and two-time premiership player Danielle Ponter.

AFL Diversity Talent Programs Manager Narelle Long said the Academies provide a unique football experience for our emerging Indigenous and Multicultural footballers.

“The program is designed to prepare our participants for a transition to the elite level of game by providing further on-field and off-field coaching and education to assist their development,” Ms Long said.

“In addition to retaining and transition our talented young footballers, the Academies also aim to bring back talent to the sport by providing new opportunities for our young athletes to fulfill their potential.”

The camp will conclude with a match at Bundoora’s La Trobe University from 11:00am Monday that will see the Indigenous Academy take on the Multicultural Academy.

The boys camp will be held in Melbourne in October.

A live stream of the match will be available on the AFL Play YouTube channel here.