World Footy News

AFL Vanuatu has come a fair way since the very early days and through the Vanuatu Volcanoes they represent their nation with pride. However the social and economic challenges faced in such a country mean that stories such as this are all the more important.

Victorian footy club Olinda Ferny Creek – nestled in the Dandenongs between Ferntree Gully and Olinda – is set for a footy trip with a difference when they embark on an AFL development tour to Vanuatu at season's end this September.

Almost 50 people from the Olinda Ferny club will take part in a tour that sees the club compete against the national side, but more importantly undertake community project work for the sport by helping to develop facilities, and provide coaching clinics in the local schools. With youth unemployment and social issues soaring in Vanuatu, the link between sport and keeping the youth active and positive has never been more important.

President of AFL Vanuatu, Justin Johnson says, “There’s a lot of social issues in Vanuatu and a huge number of youth who are unemployed. Sports programs are just so critically important, when the kids wake up in the morning they have something to look forward to”.

Concordia College in Adelaide were the first to take part in a development tour to Vanuatu, and the concept has been picked up by Horizons Sporting Events, who have developed a strong relationship with AFL Vanuatu and will be offering regular development tours for Australian clubs and schools to Vanuatu.

Managing Director of Horizons Sporting Events, Michael Edwards says, “The real outcome were aiming for is to do is something that leaves a lasting legacy for the community. Typically we try to encourage our tours to include some element of social justice participation, as it gives Australian kids great insight while also benefiting local communities like Vanuatu”.

Horizons have also developed a similar program to South Africa and are looking to expand into more pacific development programs to destinations such as Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Samoa. The Olinda Ferny Football club will be looking to make Vanuatu a regular trip on their calendar and help drive growth of AFL in Vanuatu, while providing a great opportunity for Australian kids too.

Contact:
Adam Coles
Email: adam@horizons-sport.com.au
Unit 27 & 28, 11 – 21 Underwood Rd
Homebush NSW 2040
Ph: 0488 771 781