More than 130 young footballers came together at East Sunbury Football Club on Wednesday, August 5 for Essendon's NGA Come & Try session, highlighting the diversity and growing talent pool across Melbourne's northern and north-western communities.

The session welcomed players from a wide range of backgrounds, including First Nations and culturally diverse communities, offering them the chance to connect with the game and develop their skills. 

Held at East Sunbury Football Club, the session formed part of our NGA's commitment to creating opportunities for young players from diverse backgrounds. Working alongside the local Aboriginal co-operative, the program also continued to strengthen its connection with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across the region. 

The diversity of those involved was a standout on the night. Families representing more than 30 countries came together, highlighting the culturally diverse communities that make up Melbourne's northern corridor. Participants were also connected to more than 35 local football clubs, including Northern Saints, Greenvale, West Coburg, Glenroy, Craigieburn, Brunswick, Gisborne Rookies, Romsey and Macedon showcasing the strong network of community football clubs supporting the next generation of talent. 

A memorable part of the session was the involvement of AFLW players Maddy Prespakis, Grace Belloni, Sophie Strong, Daria Bannister, Amelia Radford and Maggie Johnstone, who spent the evening coaching, mentoring and sharing their experiences with participants. Young players had the chance to learn new skills, ask questions and train alongside athletes competing at the highest level of the game. 

The success of the session reinforced the value of bringing NGA programs directly into local communities. With strong attendance, broad club representation and participants from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, the event provided an encouraging glimpse into the future of football across the region. 

Hosting the program in Sunbury for the first time also created a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections with players and families from the Hume and Macedon Ranges area, while continuing to build relationships with the region's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. 

The NGA journey will continue later this year with a Talent ID session at The NEC Hangar, offering participants another opportunity to showcase their skills as part of Essendon's NGA pathway. The session will contribute to the selection process for the club's NGA squad ahead of the 2027 NGA Games. 

Families and community clubs interested in learning more about the NGA program, upcoming Talent ID opportunities or future community football initiatives can contact the club at community@essendonfc.com.au