Clontarf Aboriginal College take on Notre Dame Yankeroos

Document Type

Media Release

Publication Date

Spring 21-11-2006

Publisher Name

The University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle

Publication Place

Fremantle

Abstract

American students currently participating in The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Study Abroad program had a true Australian experience recently when they challenged students from Clontarf Aboriginal College to a game of Australian Rules football.

The ‘Yankeroos’, as they call themselves, have been training twice a week over the past three months in preparation for the game. Having been taught the rules and how to play, the match with Clontarf was an opportunity to put what they had learnt into practice.

Team Captain Kyle Holloway said being given a chance to play the Australian sport was a fantastic experience he will never forget.

“I think I speak for all the players when I say that it was a blast. Those Clontarf boys really know what they are doing and for us to have the opportunity to learn form them is priceless.

“We know that this is a once in a lifetime thing and we will always remember it as being a defining part of our study abroad experience. Footy has given us a unique look into Australian culture and tradition. Without it we would have been missing an integral part of what it means to be Australian,” said Mr Holloway.

Local business man Mr Tony Fairhead initiated the program and is committed to helping future Study Abroad students learn the game.

“It was amazing how enthusiastic and dedicated the students were when we introduced them to footy. We really want to continue the program next year and the guys from this semester want to continue playing when they get back to the States,” said Mr Fairhead.

Students from different Catholic Universities in the United States come to Notre Dame every semester to study and experience Australian life and culture. This is the first semester they have been taught Australian Rules football.

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