If you’re after an active, team sport in the Southern Highlands for your little ones – perhaps you’ve got a budding footy star in the making or just a kid with loads of energy to burn – then Aussie rules should be right at the top of your list.
And the best part is you don’t even have to leave the Highlands to get involved with the Australian Football League [better known and loved as the AFL].
Based at Welby Oval, Highlands AFL is a community-focused club that values building friendships, fitness, and confidence through sport. These guys are all about bringing people together and celebrating the long-standing tradition of Aussie rules – a game so many Australians have grown to love.
Their goal is to nurture that same passion in young Aussie kids and to inspire a new generation of players and supporters for the code.
Highlands AFL runs the NAB AFL Auskick and Superkick programs at Welby Oval, 9am on Sunday’s. And it’s the perfect way to introduce kids to the game of Aussie rules.
The programs are inclusive and designed for kids of all abilities, encouraging participation over competition. They focus on skill development, teamwork and most importantly – having a really great time. It actually feels and looks more like playtime than practice, while helping them grow in confidence, stay active and learn how to be part of a team.
Here’s the game plan.
Highlands AFL is super-duper focused on supporting local kids in sport, offering a range of programs to suit everyone – from younger beginners to more advanced older kids.
Everyone is catered for and cared for!
They offer a safe, friendly and supportive environment where kids can learn and enjoy AFL – and they’re super proud to bring the NAB AFL Auskick and Superkick programs to the Highlands.
These programs are all about safety, fair play, and making footy fun for everyone.
Kids [awesomely nicknamed “Auskickers” when they join] are grouped by age to keep things fair and fun, and there are optional all-girls groups too.
The coaches are incredibly patient and make sure everyone feels comfortable on the field – they’ll have the kids laughing and learning in no time!
These programs feel like the kids just scored a free kick!
NAB AFL Auskick [4-7 year olds] – Sundays at 9am
NAB AFL Ausick is a gentle intro to Aussie Rules with game-based activities that the kids love – it’s really learning disguised as play. No prior footy experience is needed and includes opportunities for both mixed and all-girl teams.
To the untrained eye, these kids might look like a wild, chaotic pack – and sure, they might start by kicking the ball into the wrong goals [or maybe that’s just my kid!] – but the truth is, they’re laughing while they learn and having a really great time.
NAB AFL Superkick [8-12 year olds] – Sundays at 10am
NAB AFL Superkick is a tackle-free, tag-style modified version of AFL designed to focus on skill-building. It’s super social, with shorter seasons and no extra training required.
It’s perfect for newbies wanting to try footy, or for current and past players looking to stay active and enjoy some footy with friends – and it includes both mixed and all-girls groups.
And with this fabulous program, they’re definitely going to love it. Plus, who knows – they might be really good! So good, they could be the next promising young talent drafted to a top team.
It would be unAustralian – you might get a penalty!
AFL has a long-standing place in the hearts of many Aussies – and there’s no denying Australian rules football is the country’s most popular sport, both in attendance and viewership.
Some might even say it’s our national sport!
Whether you’re new to the game or a family of fierce Collingwood fans [no judgment, just a bit of pity! Highlands AFL is your go-to for Aussie rules in the region and they have options for every young family
So maybe it’s time to let your kids give it a go – come on, it could be considered un-Australian not to!
Get ready to make your mark.
AFL is the perfect way for kids to get active, have fun, and learn new skills – and enrolling early helps secure a spot in these popular programs.
Highlands AFL runs Superkick and Auskick programs every Sunday at Welby Oval, with one-hour sessions and there’s no need for fancy gear – kids can just wear whatever they’re comfortable in.
Sessions kicked off in May 2025 and run through to the end of September – so there’s still time to jump in and get kicking.
Got questions or want to know more? Reach out to the friendly team at Highlands AFL. Don’t miss the siren! Get those boots on and join the fun!
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