AFL NSW/ACT partners with Red Cross for Harmony Sports Day

AFL NSW/ACT has united with Red Cross Australia to create a unique experience for around 60 people seeking asylum in Sydney’s west to celebrate National Harmony Day.

Working in conjunction with the NRL and Cricket NSW, the theme of the day was ‘Everybody Belongs’, an initiative aiming to provide awareness of the common sports played in Australia and the opportunities participants have to get involved in those sports.

Aliir Aliir, who has Sudanese heritage and plays for the Sydney Swans, was on hand to help out with an introduction to AFL and guide the participants through skills sessions and modified games.

AFL NSW/ACT Chief Executive Sam Graham deemed the event a huge success.

“We are incredibly proud of the partnership between the Red Cross and the three leading sporting codes in NSW,” Graham said.

“This collaboration allows us to deliver some uniquely Australian experiences and help welcome these newly arrived people seeking asylum to our country.”

All three governing bodies supported the initiative by offering financial assistance to those interested in joining a local club as a player, coach or official.

For more information on AFL NSW/ACT’s multicultural programs follow this link 

For a full recap of the event, click here for the story that featured on SBS.