Force girls clinic kicks goals with AFLW star

For the second straight session, over 40 girls were in attendance at the “Force Girls Development Clinic” and had the chance to learn the skills of the game from GWS Giants AFLW star Cambridge McCormick.

The group ranged from those just starting out in the sport through to established representative players, with every player learning new skills and sporting a huge smile throughout the session in Nambucca Heads.

Cambridge was clearly impressed by both the number of girls that took part and the ability level of all present.

“I’ve been blown away by how many girls we had here at Nambucca, it’s been fantastic to see so many girls taking up footy. They’re so lucky to have been able to play throughout growing up and we can definitely see how their skills are fantastic because of that, so it’s been awesome,” Cambridge said.

The session built up from core skills of the game including hand balling and kicking into small sided games where the girls had the chance to put the skills into practice. The games also provided a great chance to learn game sense elements such as creating space, pressuring the ball carrier, and switching the point of attack, with the rate of learning being very impressive.

The message from Cambridge to any girl thinking about taking up footy in 2023 is simple.

“AFL is definitely the sport that has a position for everyone, so whether you’re someone who loves to run, or whether you’re someone who loves to get physical, or you’re someone that wants to jump, there’s a position for you on the field. Girls who have played other sports, it’s really easy to transition across to AFL and give it a crack because there are so many different skills that are transferable.

“The best thing about footy is the team you’re in and I think we’re really lucky on the North Coast to have such amazing clubs and such strong Youth Girls programs. Give it a try, come down to a come and try day or a training with a club and you’ll find you absolutely love it just like I do.”

The third and final session in the “Force Girls Development Clinic” will be held in Sawtell on Sunday 16 April from 10:00am to 12:00pm. Keep an eye on AFL North Coast socials for more details. To find your closest footy club please go to play.afl/play/club-finder/.