Trinity College residential students teach international students Aussie rules

Trinity College students Matthew Blair and Charles Baylis ran a community integration program at Trinity College on Wednesday 12 September, where students from Trinity’s Foundation Studies program got the chance to learn the game of Australian rules football from residential students.

The AFL skills session was introduced to teach the basics of the game to students studying at Trinity’s Pathways School, which helps international students gain access to the University of Melbourne’s world-class education. The session was not just about sport however, but also about building friendships and understanding through the common connection of Trinity College. 

The hour-long session had more than 20 participants and covered basic skills of the game, followed by goal kicking drills, which incorporated skills taught throughout the evening. Participants were then invited to dine with the residential students at Formal Hall. 

A short survey was posted after the session and 100% of the respondents said they enjoyed the session, with 75% saying they feel ‘more in tune with Australian culture’. As a positive sign, Trinity College Foundation Studies students have requested another session in the near future. 

There are many opportunities to further the relationship between the residential and Foundation Studies students, and both Matthew and Charlie are excited to see the program unfold in future years. The duo wish to pass on their thanks to participating students and the eight residential students who helped coach.

16 Oct 2018
Category: People