Sport and learning academy for top young Aboriginal AFL prospects

Aboriginal students in South Australia who excel in AFL will be able fulfil their on-field goals while completing their schooling at a specialised AFL Academy at Alberton Oval.

South Australian Premier Jay Weatherill said the Aboriginal AFL Academy the first of its kind in Australia - will ensure the State's best young Aboriginal AFL prospects will acquire the essential skills they need for both on and off the field.

Premier Weatherill explained "we have a proud record of improving educational outcomes for Aboriginal students.

"Last year, almost 70% of Aboriginal students stayed on to Year 12 the highest retention rate in the nation.

"The Academy is an opportunity to keep building on this by incorporating football into study.

"It is about inspiring, educating and providing opportunities for our young Aboriginal students."

In this year's inaugural intake, 30 Aboriginal secondary students - from years 10, 11 and 12 - will take up places in the Academy.

The South Australian Government will provide $50,000 funding a year to the program with its South Australian Aboriginal Sports Training Academy (SAASTA) and the Port Adelaide Football Club working with the SANFL League clubs and SAASTA schools to identify talented players for entry into the Academy.

Port Adelaide Chief Executive Keith Thomas said the club was thrilled to be partnering with the South Australian Government, stating "this is a wonderful opportunity for students to share expert advice from our AFL coaches, fitness staff and dieticians while at the same time gaining credits toward their SACE by engaging in a range of theory and practical workshops."

All students will undertake Certificate III in Sport and Recreation with topics geared towards participation in Australian Rules Football.

Image: South Australian Aboriginal Sports Training Academy

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