Dipper drops by
From the Armidale Independent, 21/02/2007
Australian football legend, TV personality and ‘Auskick Ambassador’, Robert ‘Dipper’ DePierdomenico, will be visiting Armidale on Friday, February 23.
Dipper is in town to help Armidale Auskick launch this year’s season at Bellvue Oval at UNE from 3.30pm until 4.30pm on Friday.
Auskick is a program tailored towards introducing 5 to 12 year old girls and boys to the skills and excitement of Australian Rules football. Craig Collins, the Armidale Auskick co-ordinator, said the level of interest and participation exploded in 2006.
“We are now entering our third year after a really successful growth spurt last season,” Collins said.
“We are attracting kids from all over the place, from a wide range of local schools as well as from as far afi eld as Guyra, Uralla and Walcha.
“Aussie rules is building a strong structure and support base in Armidale and now offers the kids a serious alternative to the other codes – one which emphasises fun, skill and safety.
“The Australian Football League sees Armidale as a growth centre and is backing us with Dipper’s visit on Friday.
“The League has also provided a a slot to fi eld an Armidale Auskick side during half-time of the AFL fi xture between the Sydney Swans and Fremantle Dockers, to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground on July 8.
“For some Armidale kids this could be an experience of a lifetime.”
Anyone with an interest in Australian rules football is welcome to come to Bellevue Oval to meet
Dipper. Potential Auskick, under 14, under 16 and new senior Nomads recruits will also all have the opportunity to register their interest in playing this year. For further details, contact Craig Collins on 6772 4872.
Not for reproduction except by permission of the Armidale Independent.