Energising Young Minds

Huddle Up! Junior, a multi-sport program designed for young people aged 5-12 in the City of Melbourne, offers a range of engaging activities at the Hub in Docklands. In collaboration with external sporting organizations, this program delivers one-hour sessions over four weeks, focusing on teaching fundamental sports skills, enhancing physical activity, promoting social connections, and fostering a sense of belonging within the community. 

One of the program's key objectives is to provide opportunities for young people to engage in safe and social activities after school. By offering a structured and supportive environment, Huddle Up! Junior provides participants with the chance to actively participate, learn new skills, and interact with their friends, fostering a positive after-school experience. This program attempts to remove barriers that can sometimes appear for young children trying to participate in sport.  

Beyond skill development, the program is a catalyst for building connections and forging relationships among young people of all ages. Inside and outside the program, lasting social interactions are formed. Many participants continue their engagement with The Huddle through our other programs, including the exciting Multi-Sport Super Clinics during Huddle Holidays.

This year, one of the standout factors was our collaboration with the AFL Men's program. North Melbourne Kangaroos players joined our sessions throughout the year and helped take part in an incredible Huddle Day at Marvel Stadium. This event gave our participants a front-row seat to an AFL match and an opportunity to engage in thrilling pre-game activities like crafts, games, and footy skills practice with the players. The young people and their families received free tickets and took part of the Guard of Honour, lining up on the field to welcome the North Melbourne players. For some, it was their very first AFL match.

From the beginning of 2023, Huddle Up! Junior has had 45 registrations and 113 attendances, with an average of 10 young people per session. These young people also represent 12 different cultural backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment that encourages cross-cultural connections, understanding, and acceptance.

Huddle Up! Junior Docklands runs every Tuesday from 4-5pm at The Hub, Docklands. To register click here.