Aussie Football for everyoneMonday, June 27, 2016 - 11:15 AM

More than 100 students from the Intensive English Centre (IEC) at Melville Senior High School were given the opportunity to learn how to play Australian Football as part of the WA Football Commission’s (WAFC) Multicultural Football Program.

Both male and female students between the ages of 12 and 16 took part in the three-week program, which uses football as a vehicle to strengthen social acceptance, understanding and inclusion in local school communities.

Head of the IEC and Multicultural Football Program Manager Taziana Leunig said inclusivity plays a key role in the students' development.

“All the students have completely embraced the sport,” Leunig said.

“They have learnt of the importance of teamwork and more about the Australian culture.”

At the conclusion of the program four students registered to play at their local junior football clubs, including Juan Miguel Papio.

“I joined Kardinya Junior Football Club because I am really passionate about football,” Papio said.

“I love it because you learn a lot of difficult skills, like bouncing the ball every 15 steps.”

WA Female AFL Multicultural Ambassador Sabrina Federick-Traub took part in the final session with the students.

“This program means a lot to these students”, Traub said.

“I started out the same as these students, playing at recess and lunch with my friends just so I could take my mind off schoolwork and have some fun.”

Running off the back of the program is Multicultural Round of the AFL which will take place from July 7 to July 10.

“It is so important to have a round which recognises that anyone can play this great game,” Traub said.

“In my role as a Multicultural Ambassador I can help pave the way for anyone who wants to become involved in footy, including every participant in this program.”

Program Manager Taziana Leunig thanked the WAFC’s support in running the program at the school.

“This is only the beginning of something that will benefit our students, their families, the local community and the game itself,” Leunig said.

“It is a really proud moment for the students who all have high hopes and dreams of someday playing in the AFL.”