The AFL this week announced Coles will be the official and exclusive partner of the AFL Schools program. The new sponsorship adds to the existing partnership between Coles and the AFL's Foxtel Cup.
The Coles AFL Schools program provides opportunities for all students wanting to participate in Australian football. As well as school competitions, carnivals and clinics involving AFL players and development staff, the AFL also provides schools with curriculum resources, teacher development programs and funding assistance to purchase jumpers, goal posts and padding.
A key strategy of the AFL is the AFL School Ambassador program which aims to recognise and reward teachers who strongly promote the game of Australian football.
In 2010, 256,475 students participated in primary and secondary school competitions and programs greater than six weeks in duration. In addition there are also over 1.1 million students who were involved in AFL competitions, programs and clinics of less than 6 weeks duration.
AFL Chief Executive Officer Andrew Demetriou said a core objective of the AFL is to grow junior participation through our school programs and to continue to provide exciting resources for the class room.
"We're delighted to partner with Coles on the AFL Schools program, which aims to involve more children in our sport and to encourage and educate them about the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle," said Mr Demetriou.
Speaking at today's announcement Coles Managing Director Ian McLeod welcomed the AFL Schools partnership with the AFL which is aligned in its objectives with the Coles Sports for Schools initiative.
"By providing much needed sports equipment and through our partnerships with the AFL and the Australian Olympic team Coles Sports for Schools helps ensure that our young people have the opportunity to play sport for fun, to keep active and for those that can, to go on to greater sporting achievements," Mr McLeod said.
The AFL and Coles partnership is for the duration of three years