GIANTS open their doors to local clubs
Over 700 players, coaches and parents attended the first of three club nights hosted by AFL NSW/ACT and the GWS GIANTS on Wednesday, with the evening declared a resounding success by both organisations.
More than 400 players from seven local clubs – Camden Blues, Baulkham Hills Hawks, Holroyd-Parramatta Goannas, Penrith Swans, St Clair Crows and Campbelltown Swans – participated in coaching clinics with GIANTS player, including captain Callan Ward and high-profile recruits Jonathan Patton and Tom Scully.
GIANTS coaches Luke Power and Stewart Edge conducted a coaching seminar with over 65 local football coaches in attendance. Covering the basics of coaching to more specialised areas, the GIANTS staff shared their wealth of knowledge with the local teams, helping to improve the level of footballer in the Greater Western Sydney region. Junior coaches also benefitted from the evening, with AFL NSW/ACT Talent & Coaching Program Coordinator Brett Somerville conducting a practical session of skills and drills.
GWS GIANTS players were thrilled with the chance to mingle with their fans and offer them some advice, though weren’t too pleased with the rogue Swans jerseys in the crowd.
“Few too many for my liking, hope they’re not wearing it next time!” said GIANTS midfielder Sam Schulz.
“We’re really impressed with the amount of kids that are here, and they’re so enthusiastic, I think they really enjoyed it.
“The game is really growing out here and people are starting to get more involved with the Giants. I was here last year and a lot of people didn’t really understand who we were. Now they’re learning about it and there’s a lot more interest and the win has definitely helped us.”
GIANTS half back Tim Golds said club nights were a great opportunity for the club to connect with their fans and give them some practical assistance.
“We don’t really get the opportunity to spend time with young players like this; I really enjoy teaching them a few things. Kids love to learn, that’s why they’re here,” Golds said.
“I was chatting to a few of the parents and they were really happy their kids could experience something like this.”
GIANTS mascot G-Man was on hand to entertain the younger fans, with many easily distracted Auskick participants particularly enchanted by his presence.
Outback Steakhouse generously provided a barbeque for all attendees, and GIANTS players continued to interact with their fans until well into the evening.
The GIANTS and AFL NSW/ACT will host two more club nights this season and all local clubs in the Greater Western Sydney will have to opportunity to learn from their AFL heroes.