A wonderful opportunity

THE INAUGURAL AFL multicultural camp is under way in Melbourne with 50 youngsters, from years seven and eight, participating in a five-day program from September 20-24, which brings together youngsters from 25 cultural backgrounds. 

The players involved have heritage from Sudan, Lebanon, Italy, Koorie, Greece, Thailand, Mozambique, United States, Sri Lankan, New Zealand, Egypt, United Kingdom, Albania, Ethiopia, Ireland, Malta, Papua New Guinea, China, Mauritius, Maori, South Africa, Vietnam, Botswana, Iraq and Israel.

AFL commissioner Justice Linda Dessau said it was a wonderful life opportunity for the 12 to 14 year olds.

"It really does truly value diversity; it brings Australians from all different backgrounds together," Dessau said.

"And it gives youngsters the chance to participate in healthy sport and also the chance to meet each other and to break down some of those suspicions that build up when you just don't get to meet each other."

The camp is conducted by the AFL and AFL Victoria in conjunction with Collingwood, Carlton, Essendon, Hawthorn, Richmond and Western Bulldogs.

The aim of the camp is to bring together the youngsters from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

From there, they will develop their football skills from elite AFL clubs and coaches, learn about leadership, nutrition and health and play in a challenge match during the five-day program.

They will also visit such places at the National Sports Museum at the MCG, Lexus Centre and the Victorian Police Special Operations Group.

The youngsters, who were chosen with the help of community leaders, will also feature in this year's grand final parade.

Guests talkers/coaches throughout the week include Bachar Houli, Robert DiPierdomenco, Jason McCartney, Brad Scott, Leon Harris, Peter Daicos, Kevin Sheehan and Peter Schwab.

AFL foundation chief executive Jason Mifsud, a former St Kilda assistant coach, said it was a fantastic opportunity for all involved, particularly the youngsters.

"Beyond sport, the cultural and social benefits of participating in this camp are many," he said.

The Victorian Government has also supported the AFL multicultural program with $200,000 worth of funding each year in the past four years.

"This camp is a terrific initiative bringing together two very uniquely Victorian aspects – our multiculturalism and football," Minister for Sport James Merlino said.

"Football plays an important role in bringing communities together."