The West Coast Eagles welcomed the Perth Hornets into the Club for a training session and tour of Mineral Resources Park.
The Perth Hornets, who recently became an official community partner of the Club, play in the mixed AFL 9’s competition and are the only LGBTQIA+ football club in Western Australia.
Star Eagles Reuben Ginbey, Clay Hall, Noah Long and Rhett Bazzo facilitated the session for the Hornets players providing an exclusive football session for the group of varying football experience and ability.
The boys kicked things off with a tour, taking the group on an inner sanctum experience showcasing the facilities and their day-to-day routine within the club before heading into the indoor training facility for a kick.
Perth Hornets President Toby Burridge highlighted what the unique opportunity with AFL players within Eagles HQ meant to their club.
“It was an incredible night and our members had a fantastic time; it means a lot to us that the Eagles players are willing to give up their Monday night to give us this awesome opportunity,” he said.
“The players were really active in having conversations with individual Hornets members which was definitely a special highlight for myself and other members.”
The partnership between both parties has gone from strength to strength since the Club unofficially began working and supporting the Perth Hornets at their trainings in 2022.
The Club’s first session with the Perth Hornets in October, 2022
More recently, the community partnership was made official with the Club providing ongoing assistance at Hornets events and trainings throughout the year, along with supporting the design of their new on-and-off-field club apparel.
“For a community club that started off as a few gay mates having a kick of the footy to now having the backing of one of the AFL’s biggest clubs in the West Coast Eagles, shows that there are some AFL clubs out there who are willing to make real progress and show genuine support to the Pride community.”
Our club has gone from strength to strength since this partnership has begun.
“The support of the Eagles has allowed our club to broaden our horizons and expand diversity within the club, both in terms of gender, sexuality and even age demographic. We now have a range of members as young as 20 to some who are 50-plus years old.”
The West Coast Eagles will continue to work alongside varying community partners to foster a diverse and inclusive football landscape for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Find out more about the Perth Hornets here.