MELBOURNE has come away victorious from its annual under 12 girls game against North Melbourne.
The teams consisted of some of the best female footballers in Victoria aged from eight to 12 years. After a training session in the week prior, the girls adorned their official playing kits and took to the field with great enthusiasm.
With a focus on development and participation, the girls relished the opportunity to showcase their skills.
Ellie Blackburn, one of the first AFL women’s players, who represented Melbourne, coached the under 12s side.
“The under 12 teams for Melbourne and North give girls such a great opportunity to develop their skills and also learn about what pathways are available for female footy,” Blackburn said.
“These are the girls that could potentially be playing in the AFL women’s league which is proposed to happen by 2020.”
Emily, 10 years old, spoke with wisdom beyond her years about the game.
“We’re lucky to have this opportunity to play for Melbourne or North because it encourages working towards our dream of playing AFL footy and develops our skills,” she said.
“I’m really grateful that I’ve been given the chance to play for Melbourne.”
The final score was Melbourne 16.8 (104) defeated North Melbourne 6.7(43).
