The Peninsula Swans Junior Australian Football League Club will host a family-friendly gala day at Roger’s Park, Woy Woy, on Sunday, August 10, to wrap up the season and celebrate its growing community.
Club President Evan Mannell said the fundraiser was an opportunity to bring families together and showcase the sport.
“We want people to come down and watch some Aussie Rules,” he said.
“A lot of families don’t realise just how fun and exciting the game is until they see it for themselves.”
Mannell is in his first year as president, having previously co-ordinated the club’s Auskick program for five–to eight-year-olds.
He said the club had grown significantly this year, from three teams to five and the ambition of establishing an all-girls team in 2026.
“What excited me about AFL as a father of three is that my kids could all play in the same team, including my daughters, and learn in a safe and inclusive space,” he said.
“It’s a small club, and we’re working on growing.
“We have a sausage sizzle after training so families can socialise.
“I think this sport lets families realise that footy is for everyone.”
His daughters have now progressed into the mixed team for under-9s.
“Our commitment is to provide a safe, welcoming and supportive space for girls to continue playing football, as the players develop,” he said.
The club almost doubled its registrations this year, with more than 40 new players.
Many participate in other sports like soccer, rugby and netball but have found AFL to be a fun and inclusive Sunday sport.
Nine-year-old Sullivan Legge said AFL was a lot of fun.
“I’ve made so many new friends since I joined the Swans,” Sullivan said.
“I love it when I get to kick a goal.
“All the players cheer each other on, which is awesome.”
His seven-year-old sister Frankie said she didn’t know anyone when she joined.
“Now I know lots of kids, and I hope more girls join,” she said.
“AFL keeps me fit and I enjoy the running.”
Money raised on August 10 will support club essentials including uniforms, line-marking paint, guernseys and game-day equipment.
The club also plans to offer family discounts and free registration for girls next season.
Running from 9am to 1pm, the event will feature five home games, a barbecue, fairy floss, popcorn, raffles, face painting, a jumping castle and the AFL’s inflatable Big Kick Zone.
On loan from Hunter Central Coast AFL, it is an interactive play area for kids to test their footy skills.
Ivona Rose
