By RUSSELL BENNETT
WHEN the sun finally burst through the clouds at Fountain Gate’s Max Pawsey Reserve on Sunday afternoon it shone a light on the best parts of Aussie Rules footy.
Junior players from across the south-east gathered to celebrate multicultural round, with a game between Noble Park and Fountain Gate junior football clubs highlighting the diversity that exists among a community that is tied by one common bond – a pure, unabashed love of the game.
Multicultural round was celebrated in parks and stadiums, both small and large, throughout Victoria.
The Sherrin doesn’t care about skin colour, race or religion and the action at Max Pawsey Reserve provided undisputed proof of it.
Players from more nationalities than there are positions on the ground run out across that white line each Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning with one common goal – just getting out and having a kick. Simple, really.
Sunday’s atmosphere explained in a nutshell just how welcoming footy is of all cultures – there was African drumming, and Scottish bagpipes blaring to the tune of the Australian national anthem.
On field, Noble Park proved just a cut above Fountain Gate White, winning by 52 points – 12.14 (86) to 5.4 (34).
The Greater Dandenong club is one of the most multicultural involved in junior footy, with a seemingly endless range of cultures making up its teams.
Gemechu Kabato’s family is Ethiopian.
The 15-year-old Noble Park player used to play rugby until he switched codes to play with his mates.
He played in explosive bursts off the bench on Sunday in a huge boost for his side.
But he doesn’t care how he plays, as long as the game is competitive.
For those who haven’t experienced Aussie Rules footy, Gemechu’s advice is simple.
“Just give it a shot,” he said.
“It could be daunting at first, but it’s a great sport.
“I love it.”
Team mate James Real’s family is of Cambodian heritage.
The Keysborough local loves the simple things of the sport, like “committing to a team each week”, and the “togetherness” that football provides.
Mouneer Ghanem’s family hails from the Gaza Strip.
The 16-year-old Noble Park resident echoed a common theme when describing just why he loved junior footy club culture.
“I get to play with my best mates in a sport that brings so many people together,” he said.
“I wouldn’t be unhappy if I didn’t make it to the AFL.
“I just love playing footy with my mates and having fun, and I’ll do that as long as I possibly can.
“My family just wants to see me happy.”
