Welcome to the Team! Here is everything you need to know to hit the ground running.

First Training Session

The goal of the first session is to get comfortable, learn the drills, and meet the team.

• What to Wear: Club training t-shirt or comfortable sports clothing.

• Boots are essential; sneakers are not appropriate for drills.

• Time & Location: Arrive 10 minutes early at WH Wagner Oval - Ashbury.

• What to Bring: Labeled water bottle and your mouthguard.

• Check-In: Report to the Coach, Team Manager or Assistant Coach when you arrive. They will introduce you to the group.

• Focus: Effort and listening. Don't worry about mastering every skill. We look for 100% effort and listening carefully to the instructions.

  Tip for Day 1: If you don't know the drill, stand at the back of the line and watch three people go before you jump in. Ask a teammate if you're unsure!

  The ‘Golden Rules’

  Quick reminders for new players adjusting to the game.

• Voice: Talk to your teammates. ‘Mine’, ‘Yours’, and ‘Here’ are the most important words in the field.

• The Zone: Know your position. Don't get sucked into the contest if you are a winger or deep forward. Hold your structure.

• Shepherding: It’s as important as kicking. If you can’t get the ball, protect the teammate who can.

• Respect: Zero tolerance for abusing umpires or opposition. We play hard, but we play fair.

  Your Magpies footy Gear

• Your Gear: Your registration fee covers playing shorts, socks, and a training t-shirt to keep.

• Club Jersey: You will also be issued a jersey for the season. This is also your player number for the season. Please note: Jerseys remain the property of the club and must be returned at the end of the season.

The Gear Check
(What do I need for game days)

Don't leave home without these essentials.

• Game Day Bag: It’s a great idea to have a separate bag for your AFL game day gear.

• Mouthguard: Not mandatory, but every player should play with a mouthguard.
  I have all age groups (Ideally, you have a spare in your game day bag).

• Boots: Clean football boots with plastic/rubber molded studs.

• Uniform: Black and white club shorts, club socks, Game Day Jersey with your player number.

• Water Bottle: Clearly labeled with your name.

• Warm-up Gear: Club training top or hoodie for pre-game.

• The Extras: Sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes for post-game.
  

Club Communication & Apps

How do we stay in touch?

• Community & Team Communication: WhatsApp for all team and community communication.

• RSVP Deadline: You must update your availability by Wednesday night for team selection. This is managed via PlayHQ or WhatsApp; your team manager will be able to assist.

• Running Late? Text your Team Manager or Coach via WhatsApp ASAP.

• Game Day Fixtures: All game day fixtures for U8-U17 teams are available via PlayHQ, which includes game times, ground, and address information. Auskick fixtures is avaliable [here]
  

Game Day Timeline

Standard protocol for a typical match day.

• Arrival: Arrive [30 to 45] minutes before kick-off.

• Check-In: Find the Coach / Team Manager immediately to mark your attendance.

• Strapping/Physio: If you need taping, do this immediately upon arrival.

• Warm-Up: The team enters the field/warm-up area [30] minutes before the siren.

• Post-Game: Shake hands with the opposition, thank the umpires, and join the team circle to sing the team song - [Click here to learn the song].
  

Club Culture Code

• Volunteers: This club runs on volunteers (parents, coaches, committee). Always say thank you.

• Clean Up: We leave the changerooms and the sidelines cleaner than we found them.

• Support: We stay to watch other grades/teams when possible.