The Essendon Football Club is excited to take its first outbound Next Generation Academy (NGA) Come & Try Session of 2026 to East Sunbury Football Club on Wednesday, 5 August, providing local young athletes with the opportunity to learn, develop and connect with the Bombers.
Following the success of last year's NGA program, which attracted more than 370 participants across three events, the club is continuing its commitment to engaging the next generation of football talent across Melbourne's north-west.
After hosting successful outbound NGA sessions at Northern Saints FC in Fawkner and Dallas FC in Broadmeadows last year, Essendon will head to Sunbury for its first outreach NGA event of 2026. Positioned as a central location for the region, the session aims to strengthen connections with local First Nations communities while also improving accessibility for NGA participants from the Macedon Ranges and surrounding areas.
The event reflects Essendon's ongoing commitment to creating inclusive football opportunities, identifying emerging talent and providing culturally diverse and First Nations participants with a welcoming pathway into the game.
Designed for both newcomers and existing players, the session will introduce participants to Australian Rules Football in a fun and supportive environment while helping current NGA players resharpen and refine their skills alongside Essendon Football Club staff and players.
Participants will take part in a range of football activities, including small-sided games and skill-based drills focused on key fundamentals such as kicking, handballing and decision-making. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet EFC players, take photos and collect autographs following the session.
The NGA Come & Try Session is open to participants born between 2011 and 2014 who either:
- Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander; or
- Meet the AFL NGA Culturally Diverse eligibility criteria, with the player or at least one parent born in Africa, Asia, the Pacific Islands, or Central or South America.
As Essendon continues to expand the reach of its NGA program into local communities, the Sunbury event presents an exciting opportunity for young athletes to experience the game, build confidence and further their football journey under the guidance of the Bombers' development staff.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, register via the link below:
Essendon FC Next Generation Academy | August Come & Try Session @ East Sunbury
For further information, please contact the Essendon Football Club Community team at community@essendonfc.com.au
