Footy galore for Auskickers at Domain StadiumWednesday, July 20, 2016 - 3:24 PM

Seven-year-old James got given the opportunity to have a kick on the hallowed turf of Domain Stadium at the Fremantle Dockers v Geelong Cats match on Friday, July 15 after he was selected as the Round’s AFL NAB Auskicker of the Year.

The Bridgetown Bulldogs product who is in his third year of Auskick got the chance to share the special experience with Auskickers with hearing impairments.

The WA Football Commission in partnership with the WA Deaf Foundation and Telethon Institute provided deaf children between the ages of six and 12 the opportunity to take part in the Auskick game at the half-time break.

It was the second time a game of this kind had been held at an AFL match and Deafness Council Volunteer Alex Clark said it was an experience the kids all thoroughly enjoyed.

“It was such a fantastic way to bring these children from all across the state together and give them the chance to play a game of footy and have some fun,” Clark said.

 “It was a very special evening for the children and the feedback we received was overwhelming.”

Following on from the game each Auskicker with a hearing impairment will attend a function hosted by the Telethon Institute next month, where they will receive a WA State football jumper, a trophy and a ball from Fremantle FC player Tendai Mzungu.

WAFC Participation Manager Troy Kirkham said football can be used as a vehicle to strengthen social inclusion and acceptance and it’s important that this message continues to be shared across the growing football community in WA. 

“We will continue to develop and foster strong relationships with groups like the Deafness Council to ensure everyone gets given the same opportunity to play the sport,” Kirkham said.

James’ mum Alison said it was a fantastic experience for all involved.

“All children have the right to follow their passions and it is wonderful to see Auskick give such an opportunity to different groups of children,” she said.

Since James started playing Auskick Alison said he has developed new friendships, built more confidence and is much fitter.

“James is very self-motivated and he doesn’t like missing training or a game,” Alison said.

“James gets to mix with other schools in Bridgetown through Auskick, which has been great for him socially.”

The Bridgetown Bulldogs Auskicker was completely overwhelmed by his selection and said playing on the oval at half-time was an unreal experience.

“It was so cool to play on the oval, it was the best thing ever!” James said.

“I got a few kicks and some goals and I got to watch my team win the game too.”

After watching the game James was even more inspired by his footy hero.

“I like Joel Selwood because he is captain of the Geelong Cats and he gets a lot of kicks,” James said.

“One day I want to play for the Geelong Cats and kick lots of goals.”

Check out James' interview and the Auskick grid game at the half-time break of the Round 17 clash at Domain Stadium in the video below.