NAB AFL Auskick participants Tex Riley (8), Rocco Riley (10), Ryder Gilmore (9), Jiji Driscoll-Simpson (6) from the Newtown Swans, NSW. Picture: Nigel Owens

The AFL is pleased to announce 1000 lucky kids aged between 5-12 years old will be eligible for a free NAB AFL Auskick registration in celebration of one of the game's greatest players, Sydney Swans' Lance 'Buddy' Franklin, and his upcoming 1000 goal milestone.

The illustrious milestone is to be marked by the giveaway, with the moment Franklin kicks his 1,000th goal, with a unique code to be unveiled on facebook.com/aflnswact or instagram.com/aflnswact for NSW/ACT locals to redeem.  

To recognise his Aboriginal heritage and in an effort for continued support to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander children to access football pathways, Buddy has ensured at least 100 of these free NAB Auskick registrations will be reserved for Indigenous participants.

He is a 'must-see TV' athlete, a genuine superstar, all be it a very humble one, he is universally admired for his skill and talent and herculean presence on and off the footy field

- Gillon McLachlan

The free NAB AFL Auskick registrations provide an opportunity for 1,000 children and their families to get involved in Australian rules football, as its an inclusive, all ability program so those at any skill level can join in the fun.

AFL Chief Executive Officer Gillon McLachlan announced the free registrations in Sydney where he is attending the Friday night game at the SCG between Sydney Swans and Geelong.

"Buddy is a modern hero of our game and a giant of Australian sport." Mr McLachlan said.

"He is a 'must-see TV' athlete, a genuine superstar, all be it a very humble one, he is universally admired for his skill and talent and herculean presence on and off the footy field.

"Our free NAB AFL Auskick registrations for players in NSW and the ACT recognises his contribution and aims to see kids all over the region inspired by the number 23 to get involved in AFL.

"Buddy's work away from football, in providing opportunity for Indigenous boys and girls isn't often publicised, but he continues to be a role model for many, and I'm sure once his hall of fame career is over, his work will only increase and continue to make a difference to so many.

"So, to Buddy, we wish you all the success tonight and for the rest of the season. Our game thanks you for everything you have done and still yet to achieve."

Participants already registered for Auskick in 2022 in NSW and the ACT will receive a gift, as well as the opportunity to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Buddy.

Ten already registered Auskickers and their families from the ACT and regional NSW will be selected to head to Sydney to be part of the experience, with flights and accommodation included. 

Participants who wish to receive free NAB AFL Auskick registration for the 2022 season must sign up as play.afl/Auskick and use the code unveiled on AFL NSW/ACT social media at facebook.com/aflnswact or instagram.com/aflnswact as soon as Franklin reaches 1,000 goals.

For more information about NAB AFL Auskick you can visit play.afl/auskick

Lance 'Buddy' Franklin practices in front of goals ahead of his 1000th goal milestone, Toyota AFL Season Launch Campaign, 2022. Picture: AFL Media
NAB AFL Auskick participant Jiji Driscoll-Simpson (6) from the Newtown Swans, NSW. Picture: Nigel Owens

 ABOUT NAB AFL AUSKICK:

- NAB AFL Auskick invites all children aged 5-12, no matter their knowledge of Australian Football, skill or ability, to participate in the non-contact program.

- In weekly sessions kids explore the world of AFL, building football skills and playing in a safe and super fun setting. The NAB AFL Auskick program has been designed to let kids learn through play and fosters a fun environment where kids have the freedom to run, jump, kick, laugh and express themselves.

- NAB AFL Auskick starts from the very beginning, teaching all kids the basics of Australian Football whilst building fundamental motor skills and learning what it means to play as part of a team. Recognised across the country as one of the most competitively priced sport programs, NAB AFL Auskick has delighted kids and parents alike for over 20 years.

- NAB has been supporting Auskickers since 2006, each year providing over 200,000 young kids across the country with the opportunity to learn and develop fundamental footy skills while promoting a healthy lifestyle and ensuring the footy champions of tomorrow can realise their potential.

- NAB's commitment to growing NAB AFL Auskick extends both on and off the field. The NAB AFL Auskicker of the Year competition provides 22 lucky Auskickers with a once in a lifetime experience, whilst NAB's various program initiatives are focused on fostering local centres around Australia.