Essendon are set for an exciting AFL Community Camp across the northwest region in early December, as part of their pre-season training schedule.

Across two days from Monday, December 2 and Tuesday, December 3, the Bombers’ playing group will visit schools within the Bendigo, Gisborne and Castlemaine region and host an Auskick and Superkick clinic, as well as an open training session at Epsom Huntly Reserve on the Tuesday morning.

See below for the current schedule of the Dons’ Community Camp.

Monday, December 2:  

School Visits

To further deepen connections within the community, players will visit 10 different schools across Bendigo, Gisborne, and Castlemaine. These visits are a great opportunity for EFC players to connect to young students through a fun practical session or within a q-and-a setting.

Cultural Session – DJARRA:

The club will be welcomed to Bendigo through a cultural session from the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Cooperation (DJAARA), providing the opportunity for players, staff and coaches to learn about the rich history and traditions of the Djaara people, the traditional custodians of the land.

This session will include a welcome through storytelling, smoking ceremony and a didgeridoo performance to support our connection with Indigenous culture, and bond between the club and the local Indigenous community. 

Auskick/Superkick Clinic: 

One of the highlights of the AFL Community Camp is the Auskick & Superkick Clinic, which brings young players together for a fun-filled introduction to the fundamentals of Australian Rules football.

There will over 200 kids who will enjoy the Auskick/ Superkick Clinic this year. The clinic offers a safe and supportive environment where young players can develop their abilities, make new friends, get excited about joining local clubs and most importantly get a chance to meet their favourite Essendon players.

Coaches’ Session: 

To further enhance the development of local talent, a coaches’ session has been scheduled in the region.

Senior Coach Brad Scott and Head of Psychology and Wellbeing Dr Ben Robbins will share their valuable insights into coaching techniques, applied to both training and gameday settings. In addition to this, expert guidance will be given on player development and the importance of fostering a positive, inclusive environment for young athletes, as well as facilitating an educational practical session.  

Excitingly, the session will also provide coaching accreditation points that will contribute to their accreditation level.*

Tuesday, December 3:  

Open Training Session

The Bombers’ open training session will be held at Epsom Huntly Reserve from 10am – 12pm AEDT, which welcomes in community members and fans to watch the squad train one last time before the Christmas break kicks off.

After training, players will be available for a snap and sign session with fans.

*- The coaches’ session on Monday night will be invite-only.