Fun and games outside Parliament House

By Alison Zell

They are normally competing against each other inside the four walls of Parliament House but the fun and games moved outside on Monday as federal politicians joined AFL greats to launch the AFL 9s season in the ACT.

Members of Parliament, advisors and even a couple of Chiefs of Staff joined Premiership winning Geelong captain Tom Harley and Hawthorn Brownlow medallist Robert DiPierdomenico on the lawns of Parliament House to try out the modified game of Aussie Rules.

Harley, now AFL NSW/ACT General Manager, said AFL 9s is the perfect game for anyone new to AFL or even those just looking for a social sport.

”Like all sports, we need to have a product that caters for everyone,” he said.

“AFL 9s really is a great way to keep fit and have fun over the warmer months, a lot of our staff are getting involved in the mixed competition and really enjoying it.

“This is the first year in its current format, but across NSW and the ACT we’re really banking on it being a great participation pathway.”

AFL 9s is a non-contact, shortened version of AFL played during spring and summer and is aimed at AFL fans and newcomers alike. It’s fast, easy to learn and a fantastic way to meet new people and try something new.

AFL 9s is the sport for everyone, no previous experience is needed and competitions are starting soon.

“You don’t have to be a footballer to be involved, I’m so impressed with how enthusiastic everyone was during today’s game and I think they had a lot of fun.”

Visit http://www.localhost/afl9s for more information.

Two Tasmanians were the stars, Senator Richard Colbeck kicked 6 goals at full forward for the Senate , while Geoff Lyons MP showed silky skills for the House of Reps.