A group of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys and girls last week got a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the Sydney Swans Football Club.
The South Australian youngsters took part in the Indigenous Digital Excellence Role Modelling and Career Pathways Camp, a six-day program that saw them visit Luna Park, enjoy a Sydney Harbour cruise and tour the SCG.
The kids were shown the change rooms, coaches’ room, the hallowed SCG turf and even the premiership cups, thanks to a partnership struck between the Swans and National Centre of Indigenous Excellence.
Grant Cameron from the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence said the hope was touring the Club would open their eyes to bright futures.
“It’s all about having them exposed to strong role models and there’s the element of career opportunities that the kids can hopefully take up,” Cameron said.
“The idea is they go home inspired because they’ve had the chance to see some really cool stuff.
“We hope touring the SCG helps them make smarter choices in the future. It’s important to be hanging around the right crowd and today might help them focus on their sport, or their education, or whatever it may be.”
Cameron said the kids were thrilled to visit the Club.
“Out of all the things on the program this was the one that made them most excited,” Cameron said.
“They love AFL in South Australia and we really appreciate the Club having us here."
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