From the Armidale Express, 09/06/2008
Twenty-seven Armidale Auskick players relished the rare chance of running onto the Sydney Cricket Ground during halftime of the Sydney Swans’ 82 point win over Richmond.

Three Armidale teams, made up mainly of eight to 10-year-olds, played Auskick matches against other Auskick clinics from the North Coast, Tamworth and Port Macquarie.

Armidale Auskick co-ordinator Craig Collins said that for many of the children involved Sunday was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“The kids got tremendously excited in the build-up to the game,” he said.

“They got a glimpse of Australian football from behind the scenes as well as the chance to perform out on the ground in front of about 30,000 people.

“Seeing the game played live by their footy heroes also added a dimension which cannot be matched through watching the game on television.

“We clapped the Swans onto the field after half-time and saw them play some brilliant football against an out-gunned Richmond Tigers team.

“These sorts of experiences really get the kids excited about playing Australian football and even more focused upon developing their skills, and it also creates a buzz around our wider playing group.”

Collins said he was already in negotiations to take three teams down again next season.

Not for reproduction except by permission of the Armidale Express

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