According to Craig Collins, Armidale co-ordinator, the numbers of participants and interest levels in Australian football continue to grow.

“We've continued our trajectory of dramatic growth and more than half our clinic are entirely new to the game,” he said.

“This has also brought a lot of fresh parental involvement as well.

“We're now planning to expand Auskick to include 4-team competitions at U12 and U14 levels next year.”

Highlights of the season included taking 27 Auskickers to play on the SCG during half-time in the match between the Sydney Swans and Richmond Tigers in June, together with regional Auskick carnivals held at Armidale, Tamworth, Inverell and Coffs Harbour.

The award for most improved junior Auskicker was taken out by Thomas Browne.