Footy fever swept through Alice Springs once again as the Melbourne Football Club returned for their annual match—this year facing off against St Kilda in the highly anticipated Heart of the Nation game. The excitement didn’t stop at the final siren, with a special footy gala day held the following Tuesday for high school students from across the Central Desert region.
Organised by AFLNT and the Melbourne Football Club, the gala day brought together young people from communities including Arlparra, Ltyentye Apurte, Yuendumu, Wilora and Alice Springs. Wanta, in collaboration with Barkly Sport and Rec and Urapuntja Council, helped coordinate the trip, transporting 28 high school students into Alice Springs for the day.
Despite the early 7am departure, everyone was up and ready to go. Travelling in three vehicles, the group made good time—with only one flat tyre along the way. Luckily, the experienced Sport and Rec crew were on hand to get it fixed faster than an F1 pit stop!
Students were divided into mixed teams to compete in a round robin competition, with both male and female players taking to the field. Professional players and staff from Melbourne Football Club were also in attendance, scouting talent for the upcoming Michael Long Cup in Darwin. Arlparra students showed off their skills, with some great goals, solid tackles, and impressive teamwork throughout the day.
Their efforts didn’t go unnoticed—three Arlparra students were recognised with leadership medals, a proud moment for their community and schools.
After a few hours of games, the students tucked into a well-deserved pizza lunch before hitting the road home. We rolled back into Arlparra just before dark, with everyone safely dropped off before 6pm.
A massive thank you to AFLNT and Melbourne Football Club for hosting such a fantastic day of footy fun and opportunity. Events like these bring communities together, build confidence in young players, and help grow the game we all love.
Written by Zac Murfet, Director Arlparra Academy.
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