Auskick moves online

AUSKICK has adapted their program to help children stay active and involved in football while staying safe at home.

NAB AFL Auskick will be livestreamed at 5pm on Thursdays and 11am on Saturdays via Facebook, taking children through a series of backyard drills, exercises, and skills-based activities.

AFL general manager (commercial) Kylie Rogers said it was encouraging to see people eager to be involved in the game despite the difficulties of coronavirus.

“It was a heartbreaking and an unfortunate reality to announce the postponement of grassroots football. However, we know at times such as these that community spirit prevails, and we find new ways to connect with each other through our shared passion of footy.

“We’re delighted that we can continue the program via virtual means and hope even those who are new to football can join us for the fun.”

The livestreams will feature AFL and AFLW stars from the past and present, including Joel Selwood, Katie Brennan, Nick Riewoldt and Libby Birch.

Riewoldt said the program provided enjoyment for parents as well as children.

“It’s a great opportunity for families to do something active together and stay connected. Being a first time NAB AFL Auskick parent last year, I’m now like many parents who are witnessing how much it is missed by their children.

“The motivation behind these sessions was to try to fill that void for kids who love their footy.”

Auskick has more than 200,000 participants involved last year.

Selwood said the clinic was an easy way for children to be active and have fun.

“Kids will no doubt be missing their NAB AFL Auskick sessions; the camaraderie and the freedom to play with their mates. It doesn’t matter if you have all the gear – or none of it – we will make sure the activities are tailored for anyone to participate and have fun.”

The clinics will be livestreamed on the AFL (facebook.com/AFL) and AFL Auskick (facebook.com/AFLAuskick) Facebook pages, with more clinics to be announced in the coming weeks.