Mid West junior football receives $36,000 boost to support registrations thanks to fundraising game

Junior football in the Mid West has received a $36,000 boost after fundraising efforts from the East Fremantle Football Club, AFL Rams and JK Foundation. The achievements came from the fundraising efforts before the JK Foundation game that took place in Geraldton on July 16, followed by East Fremantle facing off against Peel Thunder at Wonthella Oval. The game marked the return of AFL champion Josh Kennedy since his retirement from the the Eagles. East Fremantle Football Club president Mark Stewart said the funds would go towards registrations fees for junior football players in the Mid West. “We are thrilled to see the results of our joint efforts in supporting junior football,” he said. “It’s amazing to think that hundreds of kids will enjoy discounted registration fees next year because of this and there may be the next Patrick Cripps or Josh Kennedy who come through our pathway who might never have done so.” Stewart further added how the collaborative fundraising efforts have paid off significantly. “It is testament to the work of our club, and our partners on the ground in the Mid West, that we are able to raise this significant amount of money,” he said. “That we can work with our past players living in the region to make this happen could not make me prouder and we hope we can do it every year.” AFL Rams chair, former East Fremantle and West Coast Eagles player Andrew Lockyer said the fundraising would make a real difference to families in the community. “The AFL Rams are delighted to see this substantial amount of money raised to support junior footy in the Midwest. We are proud to be a part of this effort and are keen to continue to work with East Fremantle to drive junior football in our region,” he said. Stewart presented the cheque to Lockyer before the WAFL grand final at Optus Stadium on Sunday, when East Fremantle won their first premiership in 25 years over Peel Thunder 12.13 (85) to 6.10 (46).