THE AFL was joined by a crowd of football enthusiasts on Sunday morning to officially launch its 150th year celebrations and the hardback publication The Australian Game of Football.
Football fans flocked to Yarra Park to hear from league boss Andrew Demetriou, Lord Mayor John So, Australian Football 150 Year ambassadors Nathan Buckley, Mark Ricciuto, Luke Darcy, Neale Daniher and Jason McCartney, in what was a fun-filled family picnic.
"It’s fantastic," Demetriou said, in front of the MCG.
"Everybody knows that we're celebrating our 150th year this year, and this is where it all started in Yarra Park.
"We've launched our book today, which is one of the greatest publications that we've been able to put together.
"I think anyone who actually gets a chance to buy the book or read it will see it's got some fantastic chapters in it and some unforgettable photographs.
"We think it's a great legacy to leave for our 150th year. It's great to see the families out here today and I know it's a warm Melbourne morning, but it's a special year for us this year and we're looking forward to some more great activities after this."
The book was available for purchase while the ambassadors were on hand to meet and greet the game's supporters. Children were invited to participate in elements of the 'Australian Football Experience', including goalkicking test-of-skill The Big Kick.
Demetriou again spoke of the enthusiasm generated by players invited to participate in the Hall of Fame Tribute match, which is to be held on May 10.
"I've been overwhelmed, as has everyone from the AFL, about the response from the players," he said.
"We asked the players about the game on the basis that this is a one-off, the only game in 150 years where it's the best 50-odd players displaying their talents in front of a big crowd at the MCG.
"We said to them it was a game that would celebrate the past, present and the future, and we want you to be part of it.
"They've put their hands up, and if we can get all the people along to see these 50 players playing on that night, hopefully they'll look back and say that they were there on that night."
