State 16s to benefit from Banksia Hill trial game

Western Australia’s State 16s will help deliver rehabilitation outcomes while gaining a valuable opportunity to test their skills against a football team from Banksia Hill Juvenile Detention Centre on Saturday, June 9.

The State 16s will play the trial match against Banksia Hill as part of their preparation for the NAB AFL National 16s Championships in June and July.

West Australian Football Commission Executive Manager of Talent and Football Operations Scott Baker said that as well as offering a competitive contest, the game was expected to deliver significant off-field benefits to both groups.

“This is a great opportunity for our State 16s to test their skills while also gaining valuable social awareness, educational and character building outcomes,” he said.

“We really value the opportunity to link our talent programs with broader community benefits, such as offender rehabilitation in this case, and thank Banksia Hill Juvenile Detention Centre and the Department of Justice for allowing us to form this partnership.”

According to Andy Hughes, Superintendent at Banksia Hill Detention Centre, events such as this match help support the rehabilitation of young offenders.

“Matches such as this one with the WAFL State 16s team are greatly appreciated. They have a positive impact and go a long way in helping us support the rehabilitation and reintegration of the young offenders we care for.

“It builds their self-esteem, develops team work and communication skills, and for some may build on a keen interest in sport and inspire further education or a career in that field,” Superintendent Hughes said.

The NAB AFL National 16s Championships commence on Sunday, June 24 with WA taking on South Australia in Adelaide.

NAB AFL NATIONAL 16s CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sunday, June 24, 12pm – WA v SA (Alberton Oval, Adelaide)
Monday, July 9, 2.15pm – WA v Vic Country (Southport, Gold Coast)
Friday, July 13, 10.15am – WA v Vic Metro (GABBA, Brisbane)