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By Olivia Dimech
As Western Sydney continues to expand and diversify its sporting landscape, the Hawkesbury Saints Junior AFL Club is stepping forward as a proud advocate for the code’s future in the region. With the population increasing and new families moving into the area, the club believes now is the ideal time to reintroduce AFL to the community and highlight what makes it unique.
Club president Fran Grogan said the Saints, like many community organisations, have been working to rebuild momentum since the pandemic. With other sports surging in popularity across the west, he acknowledges that maintaining visibility can be challenging.
“Like many grassroots sporting clubs, the Saints have faced challenges rebuilding since COVID,” Grogan said. “Coupled with the recent success and dominance of other codes in Western Sydney, it has become increasingly difficult to attract new players and remind the community that AFL is alive and well here in the Hawkesbury.”
Despite the competitive landscape, Grogan said the club has a clear sense of purpose and a renewed energy heading into the season.
“Our club remains passionate, resilient and committed to giving local kids a great sporting experience,” he said.
The Saints are launching a fresh awareness push, designed to reconnect with families and celebrate the club’s long-standing role in the community. Grogan said the club’s biggest strengths are the people behind it; the volunteers, players, and supporters who give the club its identity.
“This year, we are focused on raising awareness that the Hawkesbury Saints are still here and have so much to offer local families,” Grogan said. “The people who volunteer their time, the kids who turn up each week with smiles on their faces, and the positive, supportive culture that defines the Saints.”
For the club, promoting AFL in Western Sydney means showcasing the simple, joyful aspects of the sport that appeal to young athletes.
“AFL provides something truly special for young players,” Grogan said. “Beyond teamwork and fitness, it is a game built on the simple joys kids love most, kicking, catching, running, tackling and most importantly, having fun and laughing with friends.”
As AFL Australia continues its efforts to expand the sport’s footprint in Western Sydney, the Saints hope their message resonates. The future of the game begins with clubs like theirs, where children first discover the thrill of a mark, the joy of a goal and the friendships thatcome with being part of a team.
“That spirit of fun is at the heart of our club,” Grogan said.
