NSW Sports Minister meets Giants of AFL

New South Wales Minister for Sports and Recreation, Graham Annesley, said he is committed to growing the talent and participation pool in the state to provide people of all ages with an opportunity to play sport.

A former rugby league referee, Mr Annesley, met the Under-18 NSW/ACT RAMS ahead of their first match of the NAB AFL Championships against Vic Metro on Saturday.

Mr Annesley was also invited into the Giants change-rooms to hear Kevin Sheedy and Mark Williams address the team at halftime for their match against the Gold Coast Suns reserves.

This was the first time the NSW Sports Minister has been to Blacktown Olympic Park for an AFL match and he was impressed with what he saw.

“As the NSW Minister for Sports and Recreation one of my aims is to encourage participation in all sports, both on and off the field,” Mr Annesley said.

“The AFL’s substantial investment in western Sydney and the arrival of the Greater Western Sydney Giants will see increased participation and competition between all sporting codes, and deliver greater opportunities and entertainment for fans.

“Western Sydney has always proven to be an excellent breeding ground for quality athletes across all sports, and the AFL has clearly recognised the potential of the region.”

AFL General Manager – National & International Development David Matthews met with the minister to show him around the AFL facilities in Sydney’s west.

“The AFL will continue to work with the NSW Government to invest in facilities and infrastructure to help grow the number of players, fans, coaches and volunteers in the state,” Matthews said.

“It was great to have Mr Annesley come out to Blacktown to meet the GWS Giants and members of the NSW/ACT RAMS team.”