Queensland KickStart team named

AFL Queensland has named the Queensland Kickstart team to compete at the Under 15 National KickStart Championships in Townsville from April 8 to 12.

Queensland will play against state teams from Western Australia, Northern Territory, South Australia and combined teams from New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory and Victoria/Tasmania.

AFL Queensland Indigenous Programs Coordinator Jesse Green said a thorough selection process had unearthed some great Queensland talent.

“Being able to test over 100 participants has enabled us to select quality players to complement every position on the field, while having a good spread of players across regions,” said Green.

In only its third year as a fully developed national carnival, KickStart has become a highlight on the national talent calendar.

This year players from the Pacific region will take part in the Championships, competing in their own round robin tournament.

The best players will compete in an All-Stars game against the tournament’s Indigenous All-Stars.

North Queensland Development Manager Craig Starcevich said the carnival was Townsville’s third major AFL event this year.

“The Kickstart carnival is part of Townsville’s month long Festival of Football which began with the Gold Coast SUNS Community Camp and NAB Cup match against the Kangaroos in early March,” said Starcevich.

“Not only is it another opportunity to showcase Tony Ireland Stadium, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate Townsville cultural diversity and strong sporting culture.”

About the Kickstart Program

The Kickstart program uses Australian football as a vehicle for education, employment, health and participation outcomes for Indigenous people

Players are selected through State KickStart camps on leadership qualities, school attendance, community involvement and football ability.

The KickStart program and Championships provide further development opportunities for other parts of the football industry such as umpiring, coaching and administration with local Indigenous people engaged in these leadership positions for each team.

During the Championships participants also meet Indigenous AFL players and engage in leadership seminars.

2013 Queensland Kickstart Team