Dangerfield visits junior club to launch footy grants

AFL SUPERSTAR Patrick Dangerfield visited his junior club Anglesea Football Netball Club (FNC) last week to launch the Telstra Footy Country Grants.

The grassroots program will give local football clubs an $8 million boost over the next four years, with a pool of $2 million to be distributed in 2024.

Eligible regional and metro clubs can apply for grants of up to $20,000 and use the funding to upgrade to an electronic scoreboard, upskill volunteers or introduce new initiatives to attract more players.

Anglesea FNC is one of 850 clubs across the country to submit an expression of interest to apply for a grant since September last year.

Dangerfield, a Brownlow Medallist with the Cats and a Telstra ambassador, said the program would bring many benefits to successful local clubs.

“I know the Anglesea Football Netball Club intend to apply for a grant to help support volunteers in the canteen and upgrade some of their equipment.

“The club played such a huge role in my upbringing. I have the best memories playing footy at my local oval and making lifelong friends at the club, and I’m still heavily involved, as are my wife and children.

“The sense of belonging local clubs create is invaluable to the community and the dedication and passion of those running the club is what makes it special – they are salt of the earth people who are always there to help.

“These grants will help make their life easier and provide funding to help grow the game too.”

Telstra regional general manager for western Victoria Steve Tinker said he was proud to be working with the AFL to help support local footy.

“Growing up as a young country footy player myself, I know firsthand how important this is for grassroots development, particularly in regional areas like Geelong.

“It’s also critical for local teams to have access to much-needed funds so that every kid has the opportunity to enjoy the game we all love.”

For more information about Telstra Footy Country Grants, head to play.afl/clubhelp/footy-country-grants