Arriving at the Gurdawara Sikh Temple in Craigieburn on Wednesday night, Brendon Goddard was immediately inundated by plenty of excited young Indian children.

There were delighted cheers for the football star, who was on hand at the Temple to launch the newly formed Bombers Gurdawara Craigieburn AusKick Centre.

Goddard, one of the club’s key Multicultural Ambassadors, said he was proud to be associated with Essendon’s extensive work in the community.

“It’s important we engage with the club’s supporters who live in the north-west region of Melbourne, which is basically Essendon’s heartland.”

“At Essendon we are truly embracing India and we have a genuine care for the community and we hope visits like these reflect that.”

Essendon continues to work in close partnership with Melbourne’s vibrant and growing Indian community to provide opportunities to engage with Australian Rules Football.

With over 50 children aged between 3-10 taking part in the interactive launch, Goddard led a skills session with the novice footballers while jumping castles and giveaways also provided endless entertainment during the evening, allowing cultures to proudly combine.

The club particularly focuses on the north-west region of Melbourne and is buoyed by the significant Indian population growth within the region.

Click here to read more about Essendon’s multicultural community programs.