But footy fever was alive and well kast Saturday for over 50 members of Adelaide’s large Chinese community who responded to an open invitation in the local Chinese newspaper to attend an Aussie Football experience at the Port Adelaide Football Club.
Among the 50 participants were 10 members of the Delta FC soccer team, who were eager to get their heads around the rules and strategies of Australia's game, before getting the opportunity to have a kick of the oval ball in Power’s state-of-the-art indoor training facility.
The attendees were greeted in the Power Community Classroom at Allan Scott Power Headquarters where they snacked on the ubiquitous Australian pie and, with a backdrop of the 2004 Premiership team, listened to Port Adelaide deputy chairman Kevin Osborn talk about the rich history of the Port Adelaide Football Club.
They were then given some insight into the upbringing of Fijian Power Player and Australia Post AFL Multicultural Ambassador Alipate Carlile, as well as his transition from soccer to Australian Football during his early teen years in Wangaratta, Victoria.
Carlile talked about football as being a great insight into Australian culture and as a platform to share his unique culture with his team mates.
Carlile then delivered a presentation on the rules of AFL, having a bit of fun with the soccer team by trying to get a few of the players to consider a switch to Australia’s great game.
The day ended with an exclusive Inner Sanctum tour through the facility and some final drinks at the Port Club, where every participant had the opportunity to hold the 2004 Premiership Cup.
The Power wishes to thank Mr Jackie Lin, Australia China Business Council SA Branch and Mr Jing Le, Department for Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy for helping to coordinate the day.
Enquiries from the Chinese community to participate in future activities can be directed to Michelle Cioffi, Diversity Programs Manager, Power Community Ltd, at mcioffi@pafc.com.au
