Talent Pathways Programs
The AFL has a range of programs for culturally diverse participants and players to increase engagement, develop new skills, recognise talent and increase social, health and wellbeing outcomes.
Next Generation Academies
Level: AFL Club Program
Gender: Male and Female
Age: 11-19 years old
Cultural Background: Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
Multicultural background:
- Player born in non-English speaking country
- Or has at least 1 parent born in Asia, Africa or Oceania or
- Both parents born in another non-English speaking country (not Asia, Africa or Oceania)
The Next Generation Academy is a joint initiative between the AFL and AFL clubs aimed at increasing opportunities for young multicultural and Indigenous participants who are new or want to learn more about Australian Football. Notable alumni include Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (Western Bulldogs), Jesse Motlop (Carlton) and Jy Simpkin (North Melbourne).
How can I get involved
While it’s invitation only, players interested in getting involved are advised to get in touch with their local Next Generation or Club Academy program. To find our more contact us here.
Clubs identify players who are not already participating or create additional opportunities for current participants.
- First/early exposure to key AFL skills and rules
- Engagement with parents/families
Clubs implement a targeted skill development program. This may include:
- Football skill sessions
- Fitness testing and training programs
- Education sessions (e.g. nutrition, leadership. etc.)
- Match play and competition with other Academies
- Exposure to recruiters and other talent pathways
Participants at this level are exposed to an elite football environment through top-level coaching, facilities, and expertise across a range of personal development topics. The Academy increases players' football skills and leadership within their community. Clubs are incentivised through draft concessions for their role in growing the Indigenous and multicultural talent pool.
Flying Boomerangs
Level: National Program
Gender: Male
Age: 14-16 years old
Cultural Background: Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
The AFL Flying Boomerangs Tournament gives top Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players a taste of the AFL talent pathway. This invite-only program has included the likes of Sam Powell-Pepper (Port Adelaide), Shai Bolton (Richmond) and Steven May (Melbourne).
Selected players participate in a residential camp, competing against the AFL Multicultural World team (more information here). Following this, players may be selected for the National Indigenous Academy for the following year.
While it’s invitation only, players interested in getting involved are advised to get in touch with their local Next Generation or Club Academy program. To find our more contact us here.
World Team
Level: National Program
Gender: Male
Age: 14-16 years old
Cultural Background:
- Player born in non-English speaking country OR
- At least 1 parent born in Asia, Africa or Oceania OR
- Both parents born in another non-English speaking country (not Asia, Africa or Oceania)
The AFL World Team Tournament gives top multicultural players access to the AFL Talent Pathway. Notable alumni include Aliir Aliir (Port Adelaide), Adam Saad (Carlton) and Mabior Chol (Gold Coast SUNS). Participants play against the AFL Indigenous Flying Boomerangs Team and may be selected into the National Multicultural Academy for the following year.
While it’s invitation only, players interested in getting involved are advised to get in touch with their local Next Generation or Club Academy program.To find our more contact us here.