Getting Your Kids Into Footy: Junior AFL Clubs and How to Register in the Geelong Region

Australian Rules Football is woven into life in Geelong, and the junior football pathways in the region reflect that passion. From the earliest years of childhood right through to under-18 competition, there are structured programs and welcoming clubs waiting for kids who want to kick a footy and be part of a team. Getting started is simpler than many parents realise.

For young children, NAB AFL Auskick is the natural entry point. Run through local clubs and schools, Auskick introduces boys and girls from around five years of age to the basic skills of the game in a fun, non-competitive setting. Participants get a pack, play modified games, and often get to walk out with AFL players on special Auskick days at GMHBA Stadium. Sessions run on weekend mornings through the AFL season, and registration is done online through the AFL's official Auskick website.

Older children transition into junior club football through the Geelong Football Netball League and its associated associations, which run competitions for age groups from under-9s through to under-18s. Clubs are spread across suburbs and towns throughout greater Geelong, so most families will have a local club within easy reach. Training typically runs twice a week in the evenings, with matches on Saturday mornings. The community social side of junior footy, including club BBQs and end-of-season presentations, is a big part of what makes the experience special.

Registration for junior clubs is handled through PlayHQ, Football Victoria's online registration platform. Parents create an account, search for their nearest affiliated club, and complete the sign-up process online. Clubs welcome new players throughout the season where possible, so late joiners should not hesitate to reach out to their nearest club directly. Most clubs have a website or social media page that lists contact details for the junior coordinator.

Girls are fully included in junior football in the Geelong region, with dedicated girls' competitions running through the same associations alongside mixed and boys-only grades. Football Victoria actively promotes female participation across all age groups, and many clubs have dedicated girls' coaches and programs. Whether your child dreams of running out at Kardinia Park one day or just wants to get active with friends, junior football in Geelong has a spot for them.

Sources: AFL Auskick Football Victoria PlayHQ