Sport
19 April, 2024
Juniors hyped up for footy
WITH the AFL Cairns senior men’s and women’s competition kicking off last weekend, the wait is finally over for more than 1000 kids around Far North Queensland, who’ll be pulling on the boots after a long wet, for the AFL Cairns Juniors 2024 season, which gets under way this Sunday.
AFL Cairns junior competition manager Jordan Gregurke said they were looking at increased participation this season.
“With a total of 31 games to be played this weekend, it’s an exciting time to be a part of the AFL landscape especially in the youth space with an increase of 20 per cent participation year to date,” he said.
“This is showcased with all clubs participating in the under-17 boys competition this year which is a fantastic achievement by all our clubs and their volunteers.”
Also, back on the youth agenda this season is junior representative football, bringing footy back to life post-COVID, with a trip to Darwin locked-in, offering AFL Cairns players a golden chance to connect, forge friendships, and elevate their game to a higher level.
Mr Gregurke said for AFL Cairns it was about more than just football. It was about building lasting bonds and representing their clubs on a bigger stage.
“AFL Cairns and AFLNT have partnered to showcase the best junior talent in the far north by having an under-18 male and female representative game,” he said.
“These matches will be played as a curtain raiser to the Toyota Premiership round 9 clash between Gold Coast Suns and North Melbourne Kangaroos at TIO Stadium in Darwin,” he said.
“The collaborative effort is a significant step forward in growing youth representative football across the region.
“Team selections will be announced in the coming weeks, so stay tuned to our socials. With nine clubs across the Cairns region from Port Douglas to Gordonvale there are plenty opportunities and still time for juniors to get involved in season 2024.”
To stay up to date with the juniors’ and seniors’ game, visit https://aflcairns.com.au/
