Heptinstall and Pease selected for Diversity All Stars

Two players from the AFL NSW/ACT region have been selected as a part of the Diversity All Stars team for 2018.

Sarah Heptinstall from the Southern Power in Sydney and Emily Pease from the Belconnen Magpies in Canberra were both chosen in the team following their efforts for the AFL NSW/ACT All Nations and national Medleys teams. Recently, Pease was also named in the AFL NSW/ACT Under 16s Youth Girls squad.

The Diversity All Stars team is made up of players in the national Medleys (Multicultural) and Woomeras (Indigenous) side, who went into camp back in March in Melbourne.

As a part of their selection, Heptinstall and Pease will take part in a national Diversity All Stars program, which will focus on leadership on and off the field, and football skill development. Participants will also be exposed to an elite training environment by visiting AFL club facilities and playing a match to end the week.

AFL NSW/ACT Multicultural Programs Manager, Nickie Flambouras says she is excited to see Heptinstall and Pease progress through the Diversity Pathway.

“This is a very proud moment to have two girls from New South Wales and the ACT represented in the Diversity All Stars squad,” says Flambouras.

“It goes to show how our Diversity programs are getting everyone involved in our game, and we are particularly pleased to see two girls enjoying their footy so much.

“We are dedicated to the development of females from Multicultural backgrounds, and integrating athletes into our female talent pathways.

“We wish the girls every success and will continue supporting them through their development.”

If you or someone you know is interested in trying out for the 2019 AFL NSW/ACT All Nations team, we will be conducting tryouts in August. Please get in touch with AFL NSW/ACT Diversity and Talent Officer, Jess Atoui for more information at jessica.atoui@afl.com.au.

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