Ki Ryan from the Port Melbourne Colts. Photo: Mass Motion
Inspirational stories from local football clubs around Australia will be shared across AFL Play platforms as the AFL launches its ‘More to Footy’ campaign ahead of the community football season.
The initiative, which showcases there’s ‘more to footy’ than the on-field experience, aims to highlight the incredible contributions made by volunteers, coaches, players and umpires as they reflect on their connection to the game and encourage others to get involved.
Going behind the scenes of local clubs – which all have a story built on history, values and the people who bring it to life – audiences will get an insight into the people who make local leagues thrive and why they love being involved in grassroots footy.
Showcasing that it’s not about your background, walk of life or knowledge about footy, seven locals hailing from New South Wales, Northern Territory, Victoria and Queensland detail their unique story about finding meaningful connections.
Ki Ryan, Assistant Coach for Women’s Masters at Port Melbourne Colts is a proud Victorian who features in the campaign.
Ki is more than a leader; she’s a role model. Starting her coaching journey five years ago, she’s become a powerful advocate for the deaf community, proving that barriers can be broken.
With her team embracing Auslan and learning new ways to communicate, Ki has fostered an inclusive and united club culture. Ki’s story is one of determination, representation, and passion, showing that footy is for everyone.
As the AFL strives to reach one million participants by 2033, it’s the thousands of passionate volunteers, local umpires, coaches and players around the country like Tseng who help football thrive and grow to ensure the game remains strong for the next generation.
WATCH THE MORE TO FOOTY CAMPAIGN VIDEO
AFL Executive General Manager of Game Development, Rob Auld, said the ‘More to Footy’ campaign was all about recognising and celebrating the different ways people connect to football.
“Each week there are thousands of participants across communities all over Australia who give up their time for the love of the game, and through the ‘More to Footy’ campaign we want to feature their stories and recognise their contribution,” Auld said.
“Being connected to your local footy club, whether that’s through coaching, running the canteen or coordinating NAB AFL Auskick, it can help you feel connected to your community.
“We know it’s the people at clubs who create that sense of belonging, they are the heartbeat who establish and nurture inclusive environments for everyone to feel welcome – and as we strive to reach one million participants by 2033, the strength of our foundation is important.
“As we launch the ‘More to Footy’ campaign we’re encouraging those who might have an interest in getting involved in AFL to head to play.afl/moretofooty to start their journey, there’s many social and wellness benefits of being connected to footy.”
Stories featured in the campaign include:
- Ki Ryan, Assistant Coach for Women’s Masters at Port Melbourne Colts
- Simon Macgregor, Coaching Director at Lower Clarence Suns
- Travis Anders, Coach and Volunteer at The Pioneers, Alice Springs
- Cristelle Mulvogue, Vice President Collingwood Park Power AFC
- Bronte Stray, Field Umpire for CAFL
- Aka Tseng, Goal Umpire for the NTFL
- Odelia Tham, Senior Women's Player for the Randwick City Saints
To learn more about the ‘More to Footy’ campaign visit play.afl/moretofooty