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< Back Giving Back to My Community Emily Maiorana 13 June 2024 Jabrill is a young person from North Melbourne, who first engaged with The Huddle at age 13. Over the years, he has taken part in a number of programs at The Huddle including, Study Squad, Huddle Up!, Huddle Holidays and our careers programs Game Changers, all of which have had significant influence on him. Jabrill continuously expresses that The Huddle gave him a sense of belonging as a young child and now as a young adult a variety of opportunities and launchpad to excel in his future. Among the multitude of memories, learnings, and experiences for Jabrill, one that stands out is when AFL superstar Ben Brown volunteered at Study Squad and assisted Jabrill with his Math’s revision for an upcoming test. “I didn’t know he was a football player, but I think that’s what made it special”, said Jabrill. The space gave Jabrill the chance to dedicate appropriate time to his studies and earn results he was proud of. Maintaining consistent engagement with The Huddle, led to his participation in our careers program Game Changers in 2023. Game Changers, delivered in partnership with the Victorian State Government, Paving the Way Forward and Ubuntu Project, provides young people with the opportunity to authentically develop their transferable skills, gain industry connections and participate in a guided ‘Employment Experience’. Game Changers provides young people the opportunity to develop a project and pitch it to a panel of industry leaders at our Pitch Event. It was at this event where Jabrill met a leader within the North Melbourne Community, Kahlid, from The Center who delivers a range of programs for families living in North Melbourne. Jabrill has always been deeply connected to his community and has felt empowered to lead and give back and the connection with Kahlid would prove to be beneficial later in Jabrill’s employment journey. Jabrill continued to access The Huddle’s Game Changers 1-on-1 support program where he received tailored assistance focused on developing and understanding his transferable skills, personal brand, professionalism and industry networks. Jabrill was also offered a ‘Paid Employment Experience’ position with The Huddle because of his commitment and enthusiasm at our Pitch Event. During this time, he worked as a casual with a group of young people on exploring ways to increase engagement between The Huddle and our community. Towards the end of Jabrill’s ‘Employment Experience’, The Centre began expanding its community outreach programs and informed The Huddle about a new Community Development Officer role. Kahlid, who would supervise the position, was passionate about offering it to someone deeply embedded in the North Melbourne community. Jabrill was an obvious candidate for the role and didn’t hesitate to apply. “I knew The Huddle would help me put my best foot forward,” said Jabrill. Jabrill committed to developing a strong application, practised his interview skills with our Careers Coordinator in the lead up and was deservingly offered the position. “The Game Changers program truly prepared me for what work would be like”. Currently in addition to his role with The Centre, Jabrill continues to work as a casual with The Huddle at programs including Study Squad and Huddle Up!. Jabrill feels grateful to be on the other side of programs that once helped him thrive, and now enjoys working to provide similar opportunities in his own community to learn, grow and belong. Previous Next

< Back Empowering Youth Through Sport The Huddle Up! Senior Program in Wyndham Stephenie Webb Previous Next

< Back Energising Young Minds Mariam Taleb 19 July 2023 Huddle Up! Junior - The Hub @ Docklands 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. "We like learning and getting better at sports. I have so much fun on Tuesdays, I always smile when I’m at the program" - Participant. 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. "I felt like one of them." - Huddle Up! participant on participating in the Guard of Honour 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. The programs are really well run! It’s such a fantastic weekly opportunity for them to experience a variety of different sports in an age-appropriate environment. We’re appreciative of North Melbourne footy club and The Huddle running these sessions.” - Parent of Participant Huddle Up! Junior Docklands runs every Tuesday from 4-5pm at The Hub, Docklands. To register click here . Previous Next

< Back Congratulations Sagelee Omer and Shooters Shoot! Cassandra Hadson 9 Oct 2024 Celebrating Sagalee Omer's awards and recognition at the Multicultural Youth Awards 2024. The Multicultural Youth Awards 2024 took centre stage at Victoria’s Parliament House on October 5, celebrating the remarkable achievements of young multicultural leaders from across Victoria. A standout of the evening was Sagalee Omer, honored as both the Entrepreneur of the Year and recipient of the Australian Minister for Youth’s Award. As a co-founder of the charity basketball organisation Shooters Shoot, Omer has played a pivotal role in raising over $66,000 to support youth in the community. Over the past year, The Huddle has collaborated with Shooters Shoot to support charity basketball tournaments that provide vital funds for young people's physical and mental wellbeing. These initiatives have directly funded psychological and therapy appointments, as well as purchased bicycles to encourage physical activity. This partnership exemplifies Shooters Shoot’s commitment to understanding the crucial link between physical and mental health, and the importance of supporting young people at every stage of their mental health journey. Congratulations, Sagalee, on your hard work and the incredible impact you are making in our communities! Previous Next

< Back An Unforgettable Day at the NBA Math Hoops Victorian State Championship ​ 18 Sept 2024 A full-on day of maths, sportspersonship and fun! On September 4, the 2024 NBA Math Hoops Victorian State Championship brought together over 120 Grade 5 and 6 students from six schools. Hosted at Arden St, the event was an electrifying mix of brainpower, sportspersonship, and sheer excitement as students competed for the title of "The Huddle Math Hoops 2024 Victorian State Champions" and, of course, that shiny trophy! The championship kicked off with three nail-biting rounds that saw students flex their maths skills and quick thinking under pressure. After some tight competition, the Elite Eight were chosen to advance to the semi-finals, each team determined to make it to the top. The excitement reached a serious peak as the final two teams went head-to-head, battling for ultimate glory and the championship title. While the competition was fierce, the day was about more than just winning. Throughout the event, students demonstrated incredible sportspersonship and teamwork. The "Huddle Heroes"—students who went above and beyond to support their peers—cheered on competitors, proving that kindness and respect are just as important as coming out on top. Their display of honesty and heart was a true highlight of the event. Just when it seemed the day couldn’t get any better, the Math Hoops participants were surprised with a visit from the AFLW North Melbourne Kangaroos! Star players Jenna Bruton, Kim Rennie and Ash Riddell joined in the fun, receiving a crash course in NBA Math Hoops from the students themselves. The interaction between the young competitors and professional athletes added an extra layer of excitement and inspiration to the day. A massive thanks to Learn Fresh, NBA Math Hoops, and the Department of Education. We’d also like to extend a special shoutout to the schools who participated and helped make the day unforgettable: - St Andrew’s Primary School - St Justin’s Parish Primary School - St Mary’s Primary School - Ascot Vale West Primary School - Silverton Primary School - St Damian’s Primary School The 2024 NBA Math Hoops Victorian State Championship was a day to remember. We already can't wait for next year! Previous Next

< Back Inspiring the Next Generation Xavier Smith 29 June 2023 The Next Generation in Schools Program The Next Generation in Schools (NGS) program, developed by the North Melbourne Football Club, is an initiative aimed at igniting passion and participation for Australian Rules Football and the North Melbourne Kangaroos among young people in Melbourne, Wyndham, and Tasmania. With a focus on increasing football participation, fostering brand awareness for the club, and promoting the values of The Huddle, the NGS program has emerged as a launchpad for inspiring the next generation of football enthusiasts. Eddie Ford returns to his old school, Point Cook College P-9, to help run an NGS session with The Huddle team. The NGS program targets children aged 8 to 12 (Grade 3-6), both males and females. The program aims to address two significant challenges: the limited availability of free introductory football programs that offer a positive first experience in a safe environment, and the need to enhance brand awareness for the North Melbourne Football Club within schools. The Next Generation in Schools program provides primary school-aged children with a unique opportunity to learn and experience Australian Rules Football within the familiar environment of their own schools. Through the program, young participants not only gain fundamental football skills but also have the chance to develop teamwork and leadership qualities through engaging game-based activities. The program aims to create a positive and inclusive environment where children can build confidence and explore their potential. For some, the NGS program is their first and, in some cases, only exposure to the AFL. While delivering the program at Bellbridge Primary in Hoppers Crossing, there was one student who initially seemed disengaged, playing with the footy by himself and not fully participating. The teacher revealed that he had recently arrived in the country and didn't speak English, making it challenging for him to comprehend the activities and understand AFL. Understanding the situation, the program facilitator took the initiative to play one-on-one with the student, witnessing the joy he experienced in simply chasing and kicking the footy. As the session progressed, it became evident that he was reluctant to finish or return the football. Recognizing the impact it had on the young boy, the facilitator approached him and explained that he could keep the footy and take it home. From then on, the student brought the footy to school every day, becoming an important tool for him to feel a sense of belonging amongst his new friends. The NGS program has yielded numerous positive outcomes for its participants, including increased physical and mental activity levels, opportunities to connect and learn from The Huddle staff, volunteers, and peers, and the development of confidence to try new things. Additionally, the program has fostered greater trust in external services and support systems. The Next Generation in Schools program has already made a significant impact, reaching almost 20,000 young participants across over 100 schools in the Wyndham, North Melbourne, and Tasmanian regions. The program has extended its influence beyond school grounds through North Melbourne player appearances, which have engaged 2,200 students from 29 different schools and fostered connections with 11 community football clubs. Notably, these initiatives have resulted in 47 new football registrations within the Wyndham area. Educators involved in the NGS program have expressed their enthusiasm and appreciation for the initiative. They recognize the positive impact the program has on their students, providing opportunities for growth and enjoyment. We love having North Melbourne come back every year, the kids absolutely love learning and playing footy. For many of our kids, it's the only time they will play footy, and they love it. - Educator from participating school Looking ahead, the NGS program aims to continue running clinics throughout Terms 3 and 4, engaging more young people, schools, and educators in the world of Australian Rules Football, The Huddle, and the North Melbourne Football Club. The program's ongoing commitment to inspiring the next generation highlights its dedication to fostering a love for the sport and nurturing future football stars. To learn more about NGS, or to register your school’s interest, please click here . Previous Next

< Back Welcome 2 AFL, Tasmania Ella Marsh 9 Nov 2023 W2AFL Lands in Launceston and Hobart across 2 exciting weekends. The Welcome to AFL program is making waves by engaging with international students, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds, and newly arrived members of the community. In a safe and welcoming environment, the program introduces them to the world of AFL, promoting a sense of belonging and ensuring participation in Australia's beloved sporting culture. A group of 60 participants had the opportunity to experience AFL and AFLW across two exciting weekends in Hobart and Launceston. Many had never attended an AFL game before, but through the program, they not only witnessed the North Melbourne vs. Melbourne match but also the game against the Brisbane Lions. After attending Welcome to AFL, The NMFC membership team provided all participants with a 3 game membership to maintain their enthusiasm to attend further AFL and AFLW games. This instalment of "Welcome to AFL" (W2AFL) was held at Blundstone Arena which included a presentation and a unique opportunity for participants to engage with AFLW stars Nicole Bresnahan and Ellie Gavalas in a Q&A session. The attendees were then divided into two groups: UTAS students took part in a clinic conducted by AFL Tasmania, Nicole Bresnahan, and Ellie Gavalas, where they learned to handball and kick. Meanwhile, the Migrant Resource Centre group enjoyed a tour of the stadium, exploring various areas such as function spaces, private boxes, the gym, oval, coaches' boxes, and changerooms. After the activities, they swapped groups and received giveaways and tickets to the upcoming match against Melbourne. UTAS international student, Rosie, shared her experience from her first W2AFL session; “I’m from Wales and arrived in July and I’m spending a year here (Hobart) studying at UTAS. The North Melbourne vs Melbourne match was the first AFL game I’ve seen, I hadn’t heard of AFL until I came to Australia! I thought it was a really interesting game but not what I expected, I thought it would be more like rugby I think, I really enjoyed the game though and am hoping to give it a go and play it for the college next semester!” – Rosie Llewellyn The Welcome to AFL program aims to open the doors to the world of AFL and form connections within the community. The program's success in both Hobart and Launceston has paved the way for further expansion in Hobart and Launceston, where AFL and AFLW games will continue to be a source of excitement and connection. Previous Next

< Back Cultural Exercise Empowerment Asli Abdullahi 24 Aug 2022 Women’s Workout is a group fitness program designed exclusively for women Women’s Workout is a group fitness program designed exclusively for women. Facilitated by our female instructors, our Women’s Workout program encourages women of all ages and fitness levels to keep active and meet new, likeminded women in a safe and inclusive environment. Iskufilan is a monthly support forum for women and mothers from multicultural communities that is held monthly in Footscray. This month, The Huddle combined these two successful programs to create a very special Iskufilan Women’s Workout. The focus of this group was on teaching Somali women the importance of physical activity and all its accompanying mental health benefits. It was an environment where they can be themselves, and they can work out in a culturally sensitive environment where there were no men present – an incredibly important cultural difference to mainstream gym and workout environments and regimes. The challenge that was outlined and addressed with this session was a lack of exercise among Somali mothers. An obstacle that most of these women expressed that they faced was insufficient spaces for modest women to work out that is catered to only women. The Huddle was able to overcome this obstacle and aid these women in learning basic exercise skills that they can continue going forward with in their own homes. As well as this, the session provided a safe space for the women to socialise, be themselves, and gain an authentic support network with different women from the community. The support the women received with the exercise was as important as the delivery method - one that is as easily digestible and empowering as it is suited to their needs. The Iskufilan Women’s Workout provided a space for women to put themselves first, spend time working on themselves and improving their key health indicators, as well as socialise and forget about their home-life responsibilities for a short while. I really enjoy the program and seeing the people. - Fatima Ali Gass This special group of Somali women are now taking initiative with their self-care, overall health, and wellbeing which was initially a large oversight in the community. Many women from the sessions experienced noticeable improvements and are maintaining the importance of exercise for their health and wellbeing. Previous Next

Next Generation in Schools aims to inspire passion and football participation amongst young people across Melbourne and Wyndham. This program includes practical clinics, opportunities for North Melbourne Football Club player appearances, and free community membership and ticketing offers. Next Generation in Schools is a 3-week football program, delivered by accredited North Melbourne Football Club Community Coaches, and is aimed at Grade 3 to 6 students. These clinics focus on fundamental AFL skills and game-sense activities which are linked to the Victorian School Curriculums. ​ This program can be booked for 1-2 days a week for 3 weeks, depending upon your timetable, grade/s, and the number of students you have. We’re relatively flexible with scheduling and are happy to work with what best suits the school's needs. ​ Please note: The Huddle can only deliver Next Generation in Schools to schools located in the City of Melbourne and Wyndham. If your school is located outside of these areas, please contact AFL Victoria by clicking here . Register your interest in the Next Generation in Schools program First Name Last Name Email Mobile Phone School School Address School Role What are your preferred 3-week block of dates? What are your alternative 3-week block of dates? How many students are in each class? What year level/s? Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6 What is the timetable? Are you interested in a North Melbourne Football Club Player Appearance? No Yes REGISTER Thanks for expressing interest in the Next Generation in Schools program. A Community Coach will contact you shortly to confirm a booking. In partnership with

< Back Warming up this winter with AFL and Soccer clinics ​ 4 July 2024 The Huddle Holiday Juniors hone their skills in Aussie Rules and Soccer! The Huddle Holiday Sports Clinic at Avalon Airport Oval, home of the Werribee Football Club, offered young sports enthusiasts a day of soccer and AFL training to enhance skills and promote teamwork. The engaging sessions included drills and skill games to challenge and develop abilities. The Cart Co team's warm hospitality with hot chocolate and coffee added to the festive atmosphere, keeping participants cozy. The blend of sportsmanship, skill-building, and comfort provided a holistic experience, leaving a lasting impression on young athletes for a memorable day of learning and fun. Previous Next

< Back The Huddle Claims Prestigious AV Industry Award In partnership with Mott MacDonald, The Huddle has won the 2023 Asia Pacific Audio Visual Industry Award for the best application of AV in Education North Media Previous Next

Fun and innovative basketball-themed STEM lessons, aligned with Curriculum. Filter by State Select State Filter by Learning Topics Select Learning Topics VICTORIAN CURRICULUM A Day In The Life Can your students present what a day in their life looks like using 12- and 24-hour time? VIEW LESSON VICTORIAN CURRICULUM Road Trip Can your students organise the travel plans for a basketball team pre-season competition? VIEW LESSON AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM A Day In The Life Can your students present what a day in their life looks like using 12- and 24-hour time? VIEW LESSON AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM Road Trip Can your students organise the travel plans for a basketball team pre-season competition? VIEW LESSON VICTORIAN CURRICULUM Final Minute Can your students utilise data to win the Grand Final in the final minute of the game? VIEW LESSON VICTORIAN CURRICULUM Rookie Card Can your students create their own player card identifying their physical and personal strengths? VIEW LESSON AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM Final Minute Can your students utilise data to win the Grand Final in the final minute of the game? VIEW LESSON AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM Rookie Card Can your students create their own player card identifying their physical and personal strengths? VIEW LESSON VICTORIAN CURRICULUM NBL Trophy Challenge Can your students design a new Championship Trophy using technology and mathematics? VIEW LESSON VICTORIAN CURRICULUM Shot Challenge Can your students improve the functionality and accuracy of a basketball catapult? VIEW LESSON AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM NBL Trophy Challenge Can your students design a new Championship Trophy using technology and mathematics? VIEW LESSON AUSTRALIAN CURRICULUM Shot Challenge Can your students improve the functionality and accuracy of a basketball catapult? VIEW LESSON Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied It was high student engagement - peers communicating, using mathematical language, comparing, reasoning, measuring, justifying, analysing… Jane - Learning Specialist, Eagle Point Primary School In partnership with