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Press Release
Hawthorn Community Camps
4 February 2008
Hawthorn returns to Tasmania this week for a range a community-based events, proving yet again that the presence of AFL in the State is about more than just first-class sport.
The Acting Minister for Tourism, Arts and the Environment, Michael Aird, said the Club would travel around the State from February 5-8 as part of the 2008 AFL Community Camps.
“This initiative sees the 16 AFL teams visit communities across Australia, involving people in preparations for the season ahead,” Mr Aird said.
“In Tasmania, the entire Hawthorn playing list, coaching and support staff, will take part in football clinics, fundraising events and other community-based activities.
“The camp is designed to benefit as many Tasmanians and regions as possible.
“Six groups of players and support staff will go to six different regions for two days, before gathering in Launceston for the remainder of the camp.”
Players and officials will engage in activities with groups such as Police Youth Services, the Down Syndrome Association and the Edmund Rice Foundation.
Tomorrow (Tuesday 5 February), football clinics for local children will be in Currie, Hobart, Burnie, St Helens, Queenstown and Devonport.
Mr Aird said the State Government’s partnership with the Hawthorn Football Club has resulted in numerous, additional flow-on affects for the Tasmanian community.
“Over and above the excitement and pride that comes with being attached to a high-profile AFL team, communities, individuals and businesses have found that there are further, very real benefits to be had,” he said.
Mr Aird said having finished fifth on the AFL ladder last year, Tasmanian supporters will be clamouring to get behind their team again this year.
The Hawks will play five games in Tasmania in 2008: the first will be as part of the NAB cup on 17 February; and the first AFL home game will be played on 13 April at Aurora Stadium.