Future footy stars showcase their talent on the big stage

By ALICE MOULTON

Sir Doug Nicholls Round in the AFL featured Adelaide playing against the Brisbane Lions, but it was the half-time action taking centre stage at the home of SA footy.

As many as 80 young First Nations footballers came from far and wide across the State to participate in the half-time action at Adelaide Oval on Sunday afternoon.

This opportunity gave the future stars of the game – from as far as Kimba at the top of Eyre Peninsula – a taste of what it is like to play in front of large crowds, a step closer to achieving their dreams of becoming AFL footballers.

In addition to taking the field, each Auskicker also took home an Adelaide Crows Auskick flag, Auskick cap and Sir Doug Nicholls Round custom Auskick top.

Little Leaguers also received an Adelaide Crows Auskick top, signed by the club’s four First Nations players.

The Adelaide Crows supported the experience by having player Lachlan Gollant and Indigenous player development manager Shane Edwards involved in the presentation of the take-home items while also providing pre-game access to two selected participants.

The initiative – supported by SANFL staff members on the hallowed turf – was a fantastic way to celebrate Sir Doug Nicholls Round and First Nations culture at the grassroots level, with a view to it becoming a regular feature each year.