By JOLENE OGLE
THE first all-ability AFL clinic kicked off last Wednesday night with a dozen special needs players charging the Tigers’ home ground oval keen to learn the art of the game.
The clinic is open to all ages and abilities and anyone who wants to give AFL a go is welcome to come along to the Wednesday night training sessions that will run for another eight weeks.
Clinic organiser Rob Purves said the first clinic was a great success with the newest AFL players jumping at the chance to learn new skills and practice their goal kicking.
Rob said the students will learn basic skills such as handballing, marking, kicking and goal kicking.
“And I want to see goals celebrated with handstands or high-fives all round,” he said.
“It’s important this is an enjoyable experience for everyone. So first we will gauge everyone’s skill level and then we can tailor the sessions to suit that.”
Noosa Tigers players helped facilitate the training session and Rob said they were keen to volunteer to help.
“When we asked the players if they wanted to help, they jumped on board straight away,” Rob said.
“I’m always trying to get the guys to help with other things, but I mention this clinic and they jump straight on it.”
The next AFL clinic is on Wednesday from 4.30pm at the Weyba Road AFL grounds and is open to people of all ages and abilities. For more information or to register for the clinic, contact Rob rob-purves@live.com.au or phone 0433 240 005 or Leanne Walsh of Sunshine Butterflies leanne@sunshinebutterflies.com.au or 5470 2830.
