AFL Tasmania is thrilled to launch the Kicking Goals program, off the back of its 28 by 28 vision, outlined earlier this year.
As part of the 28 by 28 plan, the program aims to provide and install new goal posts in every government school across Tasmania.
Richmond Primary School is the first school to benefit, after a young student wrote to AFL Tasmania earlier this year.
On hearing the announcement, School Captain Harry Wilson penned a letter asking for goal posts to be installed at his primary school.
“We have a large group of students who love to play football at our school, and we are a small school, when we kick the footy too hard it always goes into the neighbour’s yard or paddock.”
Richmond Primary School Principal Clare McVilly said the goal posts will provide a big boost for students.
“We are very grateful to be receiving the set of goal posts from AFL Tasmania and extremely proud of Harry for being proactive and so persistent in pursuing his goal to get the goal posts for Richmond Primary.”
Funding for significant programs like this are a result of the Tasmania Devils Football Club becoming a reality and are part of the significant funding package announced by the AFL to be invested into Tasmanian football.
Head of AFL Tasmania Damian Gill said the program gives more opportunities for young kids to play Australia’s game.
“Our vision is for footy to be the heartbeat of all Tasmanian communities and for so many, the schoolyard is where the footy journey begins.
“Goal posts in every school is symbolic of our ambition for the game in the state, we’re excited by the growth we have already seen and determined to make the most of the generational moment in our state.
“We are seeing incredible growth in NAB AFL Auskick, and we need venues and facilities to support our sustained growth, and schools are central to that.
“We can see an amazing future ahead with the Tasmania Devils and we want all Tassie school kids to be able to kick for goal at their local school and maybe dream of being a Devil.”
This program is a key strategic pillar of AFL Tasmania’s 28 by 28 vision, aiming to also enhance capacity and access of facilities through the upgrade and development of 70 new ovals across the state that increase gender-friendly facilities.
Expressions of interest are now open for all Tasmanian state schools via this form, with AFL Tasmania and goal post manufacturer PILA set to roll out goal posts to dozens of schools in 2025.
Schools are encouraged to contact afltas.facilities@afl.com.au for more information.