The first leg of the Westpac Community Football Festival in Geelong has got underway, highlighted by a special appearance from AFL star Gary Ablett.
The first leg of the Westpac Community Football Festival in Geelong has got underway, highlighted by a special appearance from AFL star Gary Ablett.
Ablett took part in a jersey exchange with Qantas Socceroo Simon Colosimo before helping decide the victor of a junior freestyle football competition at the Geelong waterfront.
With a double pass to Heart-s clash with Everton on offer, over 30 juniors took part in the competition, which was ultimately won by local rising star Jak.
Ablett also showed off his capacity with a round ball, as he and Colosimo commenced an impromptu game of head volley in front of the awaiting media pack.
The Brownlow Medallist-s appearance was one of a number of events orchestrated by Heart and Westpac in the Geelong area, with over 200 local junior players and school students taking part in a series of clinics to help celebrate the beautiful game.
General Manager of Community Sue Crow revealed she was delighted with the first day of events.
“It was fantastic to finally see the Westpac Community Football Festival burst into life today on Geelong-s waterfront,” Crow said.
“The Westpac Community Football Festival provides the Club with a real opportunity to meaningfully engage with the local grassroots population and help develop football in the Geelong area.
“The Club is acutely aware of its responsibilities to the Victorian football community, and hopefully, through events such as the ‘Coach the Coach- seminar on Wednesday night, we can provide support to local clubs.”
Leg one of the Westpac Community Football Festival culminates in a practice match with the Wimmera South Coast Eagles on Thursday night at Elcho Park. Entry is $5 for adults and $2 for children, with kick-off at 6:30pm.
All entry fees will be donated to local Geelong clubs.
