Essendon's Andrew Welsh will officially launch the Club’s GloBALL program at the Welcome to International Students event at Federation Square today.

The GloBALL program uses Australian Rules Football to break down misconceptions and strengthen cross-cultural ties between people of various backgrounds while offering positive and active experiences for international students during their time in Australia.

Approximately 100 international students will be involved in the GloBALL Program in 2009, participating in a variety of activities and engagement opportunities throughout the year. Some of the activities in the program include an introduction to the game, visits to Windy Hill and the National Sports Museum, career and health seminars as well as AFL Football skill clinics and games.

“Australian Rules Football is ingrained in this country’s culture and we believe it has an important role to play in enhancing the experience of Melbourne’s international student community,” Essendon Managing Director, Peter Jackson, said.

“We want to make them feel welcome and included and Essendon Football Club firmly believes it has a role to play in the promotion of social cohesion” 

International students will have the opportunity to experience Melbourne’s distinct culture and passion for sport at the Welcome to International Students event today.

As part of the program of events, Lord Mayor Robert Doyle will welcome new international students to Melbourne. The Lord Mayor encourages international and local students to come along and find out about the great activities on offer in the City, including Melbourne’s obsession with the nation’s favourite sport, Aussie Rules Footy.

“Melbourne is officially the sports capital of the world, and nothing symbolises this great city more than our passion for Aussie Rules Footy. Just as the 2009 AFL season has arrived in Melbourne so have many international students eager to integrate into Melbourne life.

“International students make a significant contribution to our cultural and social life. We are fortunate to welcome 25,000 students from around the world who bring with them experiences, stories and perspectives which add to the diversity of our wonderful city.

“We want to show our appreciation and celebrate the students’ arrival to Melbourne by hosting the welcome day which will be jam-packed with fun activities, prizes and entertainment.

“The event is designed to welcome international students to the city and provide them with an opportunity to meet other young people, experience the myriad of cultures Melbourne has to offer and have fun,” the Lord Mayor said.

Highlights of this year’s event include performances by contemporary African dance band Musiki Manjaro, Brazilian dance performers Katumba, and bhangra DJ Rhythm and Spice. There will also be roving performers, live crocodile feeding, food stalls, as well as interactive and informative stalls to celebrate cultural diversity in Melbourne.

Organisations such as the City of Melbourne, State Emergency Service, Victoria Police, Metropolitan Fire Brigade, Australian Federation of International Students and National Liaison Committee for International Students in Australia will provide further information to participating international students.

This year’s event has been designed with a committee of young local and international students from Melbourne universities and institutes.