The GIANTS, in partnership with AFL NSW/ACT and the NSW Government, are proud to present the Welcome Game when the GIANTS host Carlton at GIANTS Stadium on Sunday.
In 2019, the GIANTS will celebrate their relationship with the diverse communities of Western Sydney to welcome new citizens to Australian Rules Football.
NSW Minister for Multiculturalism and Sport, John Sidoti, said the Welcome Game will showcase the rich cultural diversity of Western Sydney and bring together new and existing fans to experience our national sport, Australian Rules Football.
Everything's Bigger Up Close: Get your tickets for the GIANTS’ clash with the Blues at GIANTS Stadium on Sunday.
“Sport is one of the best ways to build social cohesion and create a sense of belonging for those new to the community,” Mr Sidoti said.
“It’s fitting that hundreds of people from Western Sydney will experience their first moments as Australian citizens at an iconic Australian sport, at their local Stadium.”
The GIANTS will host a GIANT Australian Citizenship Ceremony pre-game for 300 people who will be inducted prior to the game before forming the guard of honour as the GIANTS run out.
They’ll also do a lap of honour of GIANTS Stadium at half-time and experience kick-to-kick on-field after the game.
The 300 new citizens, and their families, will be given a uniquely Australian sporting and cultural experience to build memories that will last a lifetime.
GIANTS coach Leon Cameron meets with a young girl who will be part of the GIANT Citizenship Ceremony on Sunday.
GIANTS CEO David Matthews said: “Western Sydney is one of the most culturally diverse regions in the country and we’re delighted to be celebrating this on Sunday.
“The Welcome Game acknowledges the contribution diverse communities have made to our game for generations and introduces hundreds of new Australians to our great game.
“Australian Rules is a game for everyone and we’re proud to celebrate that when we take on Carlton on Sunday.”
AFL NSW/ACT CEO Sam Graham said: ”Australian Football is a uniquely Australian game, so what better way to welcome 300 new citizens to our country than a day at the footy?
“Thanks to our partnership with Multicultural NSW, the Welcome Game is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the many multicultural communities involved in our game, and to extend a warm welcome to all new citizens and communities who will be involved in our game in the future.”
The new citizens come from the areas surrounding Sydney Olympic Park and represent the Chinese, Indian, Lebanese, Vietnamese, Italian, Filipino, English, Irish and Scottish communities.
There will be cultural performances on the concourse before the game for a colourful, vibrant and exciting match-day experience, plus all the action as the GIANTS take on the Blues.
The GIANTS are proud to host the Welcome Game when they take on Carlton at GIANTS Stadium on Sunday, May 19 at 4:40pm.
