Juniors from the Moree Suns, New England Nomads (Armidale), Inverell Saints, Tamworth Roosters and Gunnedah Bulldogs participated in the North West AFL junior gala day in Moree on Sunday, June 3.

Under 17s and under 14s boys and youth girls teams each played two games during the gala day, while children under 12 had the opportunity to learn some basic skills and drills wirh Auskick.

As well as providing an opportunity for children to come and try AFL, the event also doubled as the final selection for the North West junior representative sides, which are set to play this weekend and again in Coffs Harbour in July.

Squads were finalised for the under 17s, under 15s, under 13s and youth girls teams for North West NSW.

Ten Moree players were selected across the various age divisions.

This is the first year the North West region has run gala days, and based on the success, they hope to continue them into the future.

The Moree event was the third gala day held across the region this year.

Moree Suns committee member Annette Hadley said it was a great day.

“All team coaches were on hand and impressed with the high calibre of AFL played by youths on the day,” she said.

“The day was about participation and skill development, scores weren’t kept and there were no regular round points on offer.

“Thanks to volunteers from all clubs who assisted in making the day successful.”

Junior Coordinator for AFL North West Neil Dunn said it was a great success.

“The day was very well pre-planned,” he said.

“The canteen was the best canteen I have attended at any junior footy ground.”.

Coles Moree provided free fruit for the children on the day.