AFL - Cape York style

Ok this is a proud mother talking but I am so thrilled about the weekend just gone. Toby was selected as one of only 4 boys in the South East Cape 5 primary schools, aged under 11, to attend a training and selection weekend in Weipa to form a Cape York Under 11's AFL team to compete in Brisbane. Despite being a year too young, he was still selected and asked to head off to Weipa. Tragic mother here couldnt bear for him to attend by himself and luckily Sean's AFL background and interest meant he was able to go as well. So the two of them spent 9 hours in the back of a troopy (troop carrier) each way on dirt rds. Sean can hardly sit down still!

And a good thing that Sean went too...as Toby was one of only 2 white boys out of a group of 30! And he was half their size at least!! Kids came from all over the Cape, many are islander heritage and the others are Aboriginal.

Anyway a great weekend was had by all and these photos tell the story of an amazing experience for him. The AFL people are amazing and spent a lot of time talking about healthy eating, living, respect for each other, no violence etc etc - all good stuff for any 9 year old. He was told at the end that he would have been selected but just couldnt be because of his age - but they're keen to revisit it next near if we are still here. I am very proud but kind of glad - when you look at his skinny little body against some of the other kids well....

Another great experience for him in our Cape York life.