In just a decade since graduating from high school, Brisbane co-captain Harris Andrews has witnessed significant growth in Australian Rules football in his hometown of Brisbane.
Upon completing his education at inner northside Padua College in 2014, rugby was the dominant sport at the school, with Australian Rules football considered more of a casual activity between seasons in the Associated Independent Colleges (AIC) competition.
Australian Rules matches were limited to three games on Wednesday afternoons, with minimal participation and attention compared to other sports.
However, within five years, the sport had evolved into a fully-fledged eight-week option in term one, marking a significant transformation in its popularity and recognition within the school and wider community.
The establishment of the Andrews Cameron Cup, an annual event between Padua College and Marist College Ashgrove, further solidified the sport’s presence and significance in a city traditionally dominated by rugby league and rugby union.
The increased prominence of Australian Rules football coincided with the Brisbane Lions’ ascent in the AFL, providing inspiration and momentum for the sport’s growth.
Reflecting on these developments, Andrews expressed his delight at witnessing the evolution and expansion of Australian Rules football in Queensland, emphasizing the positive correlation between grassroots development and the overall improvement of Queensland football.
In addition to his observations on the growth of Australian Rules football, Andrews shared insights into his personal journey and upbringing, highlighting his early exposure to the sport through his family’s passion for Essendon Football Club and his formative years playing for the Aspley Hornets.
Despite initially dabbling in various sports, including rugby league, rugby union, volleyball, basketball, cricket, and swimming, Andrews found his true passion and calling in Australian Rules football, ultimately leading to his remarkable success as a key defender for the Brisbane Lions.
Andrews’ story serves as a testament to the potential for talent to emerge from unconventional pathways, encouraging aspiring athletes to pursue their passion and embrace opportunities for growth and development, regardless of early setbacks or challenges.
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