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At the heart of every great AFL team is one powerful quality — teamwork. For junior players, learning to play as a team isn’t just about winning games. It’s about building confidence, communication, and a sense of belonging that goes well beyond the footy field.At Penrith Giants, we believe that teaching teamwork from the very beginning helps young players grow into not only better athletes, but also better people.Why Teamwork Matters in Junior AFL AFL is a fast-paced, dynamic game that relies on players supporting each other. Whether it’s sharing the ball, creating space, or encouraging a teammate after a missed kick, teamwork is built into every part of the game.For junior players, learning how to work together helps them:<ul><li>Develop communication skills</li><li>Understand shared responsibility</li><li>Celebrate group success rather than individual performance</li><li>Learn resilience through wins and losses together Teamwork Builds Confidence and Trust Being part of a team helps young players feel supported and valued. Knowing that your teammates have your back on the field — and off — gives kids a sense of security. This trust builds confidence, encouraging them to try new things, take positive risks, and keep pushing themselves to improve.</li></ul>Learning Life Skills Through Footy The lessons learned through teamwork in AFL go far beyond sport. Kids quickly discover that success comes from working with others, listening to different ideas, and respecting everyone’s role — skills they’ll carry with them in school, relationships, and later in life.How Parents and Coaches Support Teamwork Parents and coaches play a huge role in modelling and encouraging teamwork. At Penrith Giants, we foster a culture where:<ul><li>Coaches celebrate effort, not just individual brilliance</li><li>Players are encouraged to lift each other up and support one another</li><li>Everyone contributes, regardless of skill level</li><li>Respect and encouragement are part of every training session and game&nbsp; A Club Culture That Supports Growth From Auskick to Under 17s, we’re proud to say that teamwork is one of the foundations of our club culture. It’s what turns players into mates, and teams into families. It's also what makes junior AFL such a powerful and positive experience for kids of all backgrounds and skill levels.</li></ul>&nbsp;Want your child to experience the benefits of being part of a team? Join the Penrith Giants and give them the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive — both on and off the field.

The Importance of Teamwork in Junior AFL

Joining a new sport can be exciting, but for first-time AFL players and parents, it can also feel a little overwhelming. At Penrith Giants, we want to make the transition into footy as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here’s everything you need to know to help your child get started in AFL.What to Expect at TrainingBased on your child's age, training sessions are designed to be fun, engaging, and skill-focused. The older they get the more coaches will expect players to enjoy training but to also be honing their skills. <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-weight: inherit; font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); background-color: rgba(249,250,251,var(--tw-bg-opacity));">Here’s what your child can expect:Warm-Ups &amp; Drills: Sessions typically begin with warm-ups to prevent injuries, followed by skill drills like kicking, marking, handballing, and tackling.Teamwork &amp; Games: Players will participate in small games and match simulations to build confidence and understanding of the game.Coaches &amp; Support: Our coaches focus on development and encouragement—no prior AFL experience is necessary.&nbsp;Tips for Parents:Ensure your child arrives on time, ready to train.Pack a water bottle and appropriate gear (football boots and mouthguard if needed).Encourage a positive attitude—effort and enthusiasm are more important than immediate skill.Game Day TipsAFL matches are an exciting experience for kids and families. Here’s what to keep in mind:Arrival Time: Arrive early to allow warm-up time and listen to the coach’s pre-game talk. Your coach or manager will communicate their expectations around this.&nbsp;Uniform &amp; Gear: Make sure your child wears their full uniform and brings their mouthguard, boots, and water bottle.Understanding the Rules: Younger players will gradually learn the rules, and umpires will guide them throughout the game. Often umpires will be learning and gaining experience, it's important we remember that everyone on the field is looking to improve and have fun.&nbsp;Teamwork &amp; Encouragement: AFL is all about playing as a team. Win or lose, we encourage good sportsmanship and having fun.Tips for Parents:Cheer and encourage all players, not just your child.Let the coaches coach—your support from the sidelines should be positive and uplifting.Help with volunteer roles like goal umpiring or setting up if needed—community clubs rely on parents getting involved.How Parents Can Support Their KidsAs a parent, your support plays a big role in your child’s AFL journey. Here’s how you can help:Encourage Effort, Not Just Results: Focus on their improvement and enjoyment rather than winning or losing. If you can prioritise this you are 90% of the way to ensuring your child grows up loving sport.&nbsp;Keep it Fun: AFL is about making friends and staying active—remind your child to enjoy the experience.Be Involved: Whether it’s helping at training, bringing oranges for halftime, or just being a friendly face at games, your involvement makes a difference.Stay Connected: Join the Penrith Giants community on social media and stay updated on training, game schedules, and events.Final ThoughtsStarting AFL for the first time is an exciting step for both kids and parents. With the right preparation and support, your child will build confidence, develop new skills, and have a great time playing footy. We look forward to seeing you at training and game day with the Penrith Giants!Have any questions? Reach out to us—we’re here to help!

AFL Tips for First-Time Players and Parents plus some Helpful Reminders for the Experienced Parents

The start of the AFL season is always an exciting time for young players and their families. Whether your child is new to footy or returning for another year with the Penrith Giants, preparing properly can help them feel confident, improve their skills, and ensure they have a fun and successful season. Here’s a guide to getting your child ready for the AFL season.Note: While some of these tips go above and beyond, they’re not a prerequisite for playing with the Penrith Giants. If you simply bring enthusiasm and a willingness to have fun, you’re already off to a great start—but if you want to be extra prepared, this guide has you covered! &nbsp; 1. Build Up Their Fitness AFL is a dynamic sport that requires endurance, agility, and strength. As the season approaches, encourage your child to get active by incorporating:Running &amp; Cardio: Jogging, cycling, or even kicking the footy at the park will help improve stamina. Agility &amp; Footwork: Simple drills like ladder steps or cone exercises can help with quick movements. Strength &amp; Flexibility: Bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups, combined with stretching, help prevent injuries. Even small amounts of physical activity before the season starts will help them feel stronger and more confident when training begins. 2. Focus on Nutrition &amp; Hydration A well-balanced diet fuels young athletes for training and game day. Encourage:Healthy Carbs &amp; Proteins: Whole grains, lean meats, eggs, and dairy products provide long-lasting energy. Fruits &amp; Vegetables: Help with recovery and overall well-being. Hydration: Encourage plenty of water throughout the day, especially in the heat of summer training sessions. Try to avoid too many processed snacks or sugary drinks, as they can lead to energy crashes. 3. Get the Right Gear Having the right equipment ensures your child is comfortable and protected throughout the season. Key items include:Footy Boots: Proper boots provide grip and support for running and quick changes in direction. Mouthguard: Essential for protecting teeth and gums. Custom-fitted mouthguards are recommended. Club Uniform: Make sure your child has their shorts, and socks ready for game day. AFL Ball: Practicing at home with an appropriately sized ball helps with skill development. Size 1 – Auskick (Ages 5-8) Size 2 – Under 9s &amp; Under 10s Size 3 – Under 11s, Under 12s &amp; Under 13s Girls Size 4 – Under 13s, Under 14s &amp; Under 15s &amp; 17s Girls Size 5 – Under 15s and above (Full-size ball, used in senior AFL) Check that all gear fits properly and is in good condition before the first training session. 4. Refresh Their AFL Knowledge If your child is new to AFL or needs a refresher, going over the basics before the season starts can help them feel more confident. You can:Watch AFL games together to see how the game flows. Practice basic skills like handballing, marking, and kicking in the backyard. Discuss key rules such as tackling, holding the ball, and out-of-bounds rules. If they have questions, encourage them to ask their coaches or teammates. Learning together makes it even more fun! 5. Encourage a Positive Mindset AFL is about more than just physical skills—it’s also about teamwork, perseverance, and having fun. Remind your child to:Try their best and focus on improvement rather than perfection. Support their teammates and embrace the club’s community spirit. Have fun! Footy is about enjoying the game, making friends, and being active. Help them set small goals for the season, whether it’s learning a new skill, improving their fitness, or just giving every game their best effort. Join the Giants for an Exciting Season! The Penrith Giants are looking forward to another fantastic AFL season, and we can’t wait to see our junior players back on the field. With a little preparation, your child will be ready to enjoy a season full of fun, teamwork, and footy action!If you haven’t registered yet, be sure to sign up now and get ready for an amazing year ahead. See you on the field!

How to Prepare Your Child for the AFL Season

Family exercising and jogging together at an outdoor park

The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect, reset, and create meaningful goals for your family. New Year’s resolutions aren’t just for individuals—they can be a great way for families to bond, grow, and work together toward shared goals. Whether it’s spending more quality time together, building healthier habits, or creating new traditions, setting family-focused resolutions can make 2025 your best year yet.Why Create Family Resolutions? Setting resolutions as a family strengthens bonds and creates opportunities for teamwork. By working toward common goals, families can build stronger connections and develop positive habits that benefit everyone. Resolutions can also provide a sense of purpose, encouraging each family member to contribute and support one another.Ideas for Family-Focused Resolutions 1. Spend more quality time together: Commit to regular family game nights, movie marathons, or outdoor adventures. 2. Get active as a family: Take up a shared activity like bike riding, hiking, or playing a sport together. 3. Prioritise healthy eating: Plan and prepare meals together, introducing new recipes and healthier options. 4. Volunteer as a family: Find local causes to support and spend time giving back to your community. Could volunteering at your local AFL Club be on the cards? 5. Create a tech-free zone: Designate times or spaces in your home for screen-free bonding. 6. Start a family savings goal: Whether it’s for a vacation, home project, or special treat, saving together teaches valuable lessons. 7. Document memories: Start a family journal or scrapbook to capture milestones and memories throughout the year.How to Make Family Resolutions Stick Be specific about your goals. For example, instead of saying, “Spend more time together,” decide on one night a week for a family activity. Keep goals realistic and achievable, ensuring they fit into your family’s routine. Assign roles so that each family member has a part to play in achieving the resolution. Track progress as a family, celebrating small wins along the way. Be flexible and open to adjusting goals if needed—life can be unpredictable, and it’s okay to adapt.The Benefits of Family Resolutions Working on resolutions together strengthens communication, builds trust, and creates lasting memories. It also teaches children the importance of goal-setting and teamwork, skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. By prioritising family time and shared goals, you’re creating a stronger foundation for a happy, connected household.Making 2025 a Year to Remember New Year’s resolutions are an opportunity to grow closer as a family while creating habits that enrich your lives. Whether it’s enjoying more quality time, getting active, or giving back to the community, the key is to focus on what matters most to your family. With a little planning and commitment, 2025 can be a year filled with connection, growth, and joy. Here’s to a wonderful new year for you and your loved ones—Happy New Year!

New Year’s Resolutions: Setting Goals for Your Family’s Best Year Yet

Basketball, winner and hands, team high five for outdoor game. Success, diversity and victory goal for sports for men. Teamwork, diversity and support, friends on basketball court together with coach

Playing sports as a child or teenager offers much more than physical activity—it’s a powerful way to support health, boost wellbeing, and develop essential life skills. Whether your child is learning the basics through Auskick or representing their local club on the field, the benefits of sports extend far beyond the game itself.Physical Health and Fitness Sports are a fantastic way to keep children and teenagers physically active, helping them build strength, endurance, and cardiovascular health. Regular exercise through sports like AFL improves coordination, balance, and agility while promoting healthy growth and development. Additionally, participating in sports fosters lifelong habits that combat sedentary lifestyles and reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.Mental Health and Emotional Resilience Playing sports has a positive impact on mental health, as physical activity releases endorphins that naturally improve mood and reduce stress. For children and teens, sports become an outlet to manage school pressures and other challenges, offering a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Achieving goals on the field—like mastering a new skill or contributing to a team win—builds self-esteem and confidence. Importantly, sports also teach resilience and perseverance, showing kids how to handle setbacks and keep striving toward their goals.Social Skills and Teamwork Being part of a sports team fosters a strong sense of community and belonging. For children and teenagers, it’s an opportunity to form friendships, develop communication skills, and work collaboratively with others. Sports teach the importance of teamwork, where every player contributes to a shared goal. Kids also learn respect and sportsmanship, key values that help them thrive in relationships, school, and later in life.Building Lifelong Habits and Life Skills The discipline required to balance practice, games, and schoolwork teaches children time management and organizational skills. Sports also encourage goal-setting, whether it’s improving personal performance or helping the team succeed. These habits and skills prepare young people for future challenges, both on and off the field.A Supportive and Inclusive Environment At the Penrith Giants, we believe every child should have the chance to experience the benefits of sports. From our Auskick program—an introduction to AFL for kids aged 5 to 8—to junior teams for teenagers, we provide a safe and welcoming space for players of all abilities. We’re also proud of our Kickability program, designed for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other intellectual and communication disabilities, offering tailored activities that ensure everyone can enjoy the game.Why Choose the Penrith Giants? Joining a community-focused club like the Penrith Giants not only helps kids stay active but also provides a platform to grow emotionally, socially, and mentally. We’re more than just a football club—we’re a family dedicated to building strong, confident players both on and off the field.Encourage your child or teenager to get involved in sports today. With the Penrith Giants, they’ll develop skills, make lifelong friends, and gain all the benefits that come with playing sports in a supportive, inclusive environment. Ready to start their journey? Contact us today to learn more about our programs and teams.

The Benefits of Playing Sports for Children and Teenagers: Health, Wellbeing, and Lifelong Skills

Kids having a fun with their school coach

A Thrilling Sport for Kids and Teens Australian Rules Football (AFL) is an exciting, fast-paced, and dynamic sport that’s gaining popularity among young people across Australia. Whether your child is exploring sports for the first time or looking for a fresh challenge, AFL offers an incredible combination of physical activity, skill development, and social connections. Let’s take a closer look at why AFL is an excellent option for kids and teens searching for a new sport.Developing Fitness and Skills AFL combines elements of running, kicking, handballing, and marking, making it a sport that develops a wide range of physical skills. Players build endurance, strength, and agility while improving coordination and motor skills. The fast pace of the game keeps young athletes engaged, ensuring they stay active and motivated. For kids and teens looking for a sport that keeps them fit while constantly challenging them to grow, AFL is the perfect choice.Teamwork and Leadership One of the greatest aspects of AFL is its emphasis on teamwork. Every player on the field has a role, and success depends on working together as a team. Young people develop communication skills, learn to trust their teammates, and build confidence in their ability to contribute to shared goals. Many players also have the opportunity to take on leadership roles, such as captains, learning how to inspire and guide their peers—skills that benefit them well beyond the game.A Sport for Everyone AFL is a sport for everyone. Whether your child is new to team sports or already an active athlete, there’s a place for them in the AFL community. Programs like Auskick provide an easy introduction to the game for younger players aged 5 to 8, while clubs like the Penrith Giants offer pathways for older players to join junior teams or participate in inclusive initiatives like the Kickability program, tailored for children with additional needs.A Game That’s Always Fun AFL is known for its thrilling pace and high-energy gameplay, which keeps players engaged and having fun. The variety of skills involved—whether it’s kicking a goal, marking the ball, or tackling an opponent—means there’s always something new to master. For young people who thrive on action and excitement, AFL delivers a unique experience that’s hard to beat.Building Confidence and Resilience Joining an AFL club like the Penrith Giants is about more than just playing a sport—it’s about being part of a supportive community. Players make friends, connect with coaches and mentors, and feel a sense of belonging. AFL also fosters resilience and determination, as players learn to handle challenges and celebrate achievements both individually and as a team.Why Choose AFL with the Penrith Giants? The Penrith Giants provide an excellent environment for young people to explore AFL, with programs tailored to every age and ability. From learning the basics in Auskick to thriving in our junior teams for boys and girls aged Under 11 to Under 17, we ensure every player has the opportunity to grow and succeed. For children needing extra support, our Kickability program ensures everyone can enjoy AFL in a way that works for them.Take the First Step into AFL If your child is looking for a new sport, AFL offers an unbeatable mix of fitness, fun, and friendship. It’s a sport that challenges, inspires, and rewards players in every way. With the Penrith Giants, your child can discover their potential, make lifelong connections, and experience the thrill of AFL in a welcoming and inclusive community. Ready to give AFL a go? Contact us today to learn more about our programs and teams and take the first step into the exciting world of Australian Rules Football!

Blog

The Importance of Teamwork in Junior AFL

AFL Tips for First-Time Players and Parents plus some Hel...

How to Prepare Your Child for the AFL Season

New Year’s Resolutions: Setting Goals for Your Family’s B...

The Benefits of Playing Sports for Children and Teenagers...

Why AFL is a Great Sport for Young People