The Falcons had around 30 kids for their fledgling Aussie Rules program last year and are hoping to build on that this year.
Dashing GWS GIANTS defender Joe Fonti attended the Falcon’s launch on Monday night, and was impressed with the turnout.
“It’s great to see the growth from year-to-year of kids playing Aussie rules in Western Sydney, even compared to last year, the number of kids who came to the launch with a passion for footy has increased,” said Fonti, who hails from Perth and was drafted by the GIANTS in 2023.
“Our goal is to see more kids playing Aussie Rules and choosing this pathway for their sporting journey. So it is good to see so many kids coming along.”
Fonti admitted it was a highlight to attend local club events, insisting that engaging with local kids was a key to growing the game in Western Sydney and the GIANTS fanbase.
“It’s great to bring a smile to these kids faces and see them happy playing Aussie Rules. Obviously soccer and rugby league are dominant sports in this area, but I think events like this at Fairfield are important to help grow Aussie rules as a sport in the region,” Fonti said.
“Meeting the kids is great, it allows us to interact with who we represent and also allows the kids to put names to faces when they see us play on TV.
“Hopefully it means they can relate to us when they watch us and can become GIANTS fans.”
Fonti and the GIANTS are set for a huge 2026 campaign. The 21-year-old was an AFL Rising Star nominee in 2025, appearing in 17 games for the GIANTS, who finished fifth.
After near misses in the past three finals’ campaigns, Fonti admits his team-mates are keen to make amends this season.
“We are ready to go for this season. There are a few guys who are ready to make the step up this year. GIANTS fans should keep an eye on the likes of Harry Rowston, Nick Madden, Harvey Thomas, Joe Fonti and Phoenix Gothard, who are set to take their game to another level.”
The GIANTS beat Collingwood 110-75 last weekend in their first match simulation. They take on the Sydney Swans on Thursday afternoon at Henson Park in a pre season game.
Their Opening Round match is against Hawthorn, the team who eliminated them in last year’s finals. The match against the Hawks is at ENGIE Stadium on Saturday, March 7 at 4.15pm.
