Footy Kids Get a Kick out of Rookie SeriesTuesday, August 9, 2022 - 2:25 PM

A new program introduced by the West Australian Football Commission is promoting the benefits of children continuing their involvement in the game. 

The Rookie Series Transition program aims to support the progression of kids from Year 2 Auskick into Junior Football by providing a safe environment to participate in structured and modified games against nearby clubs. 

Trialled initially in WA Metro football programs, the Rookie Series has been running for two weeks this season in a home and away format, with clubs hosting matches in their allocated hubs before a “Festival of Footy” graduation carnival for participants. 

Michelle Sewell, Auskick & Junior Football Coordinator at the West Australian Football Commission, is excited at what the concept offers. 

“For many young players, families and coaches, this will be the first time they kit up in club colours, and experience how Community footy runs on the weekend,” Sewell said. 
 
The program has many benefits. 

“The Rookie Series Transition Program introduces concepts of competition and structured football. 

It also educates parents and coaches that Junior Football isn’t what you see in an AFL match or on television. 

It’s a modified, safe, and inclusive sport,” Sewell said. 

The Rookie Series has led to new opportunities for children, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents. 

“Thanks for all your hard work Michelle and the team at the WAFC. 

My daughter Harper loved being like her big brother, playing her first real game of footy ready for next year. 

The excitement for her in the lead up to the match and the feeling afterwards shows how important it is for kids to get this taste of competition in a safe and modified way,” said Kayleigh Richardson, Auskick Coordinator at Baldivis JFC. 
 
For over two decades, the NAB AFL Auskick program has been a critical part of football’s pathway. 

After a major review in 2019, the focus was on fun and active play, not only facilitating a child’s passion for football but enabling them to learn fundamental skills from a young age. 

The reinvigorated NAB AFL Auskick program was developed in consultation with sports coaches, industry experts in childhood development and education, as well as existing NAB AFL Auskick coaches, parents, and participants. 

It aims to ensure Auskick is one of the best first experiences children have with the sport. 

The changes have been hailed a success by participants and clubs, with a growth in participation and retention across age groups.  

Three years down the track, phase two of the review saw a need to bridge the gap between the NAB AFL Auskick Program and structured junior football competitions.  

In 2021, there were 7600 children participating in Metro WA Year 2 Auskick Programs. 

By introducing football families and NAB Auskick participants to “junior football” experiences through the Rookie Series program, the WA Football Commission looks forward to more NAB AFL Auskickers transitioning to Junior Football competitions in 2023.