Western Sydney welcomes historic NAB AFL draft

Minister for Sport and Recreation, Graham Annesley, will join the AFL’s movers and shakers in Western Sydney at the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre to witness history in the making when the 2011 NAB AFL Draft is held for the first time in NSW.

Mr Annesley said the third ever draft to be held outside of Melbourne highlights the NSW Government’s commitment to attracting major events to Western Sydney.

“This is a major coup for NSW and the Government through Destination NSW is proud to support the 2011 NAB AFL Draft in Western Sydney, one of the most important events on the AFL calendar,” Mr Annesley said.

Pursuing major events is a key part of the Governments strategy to rebuild the NSW economy, and securing key sporting events such as the NAB AFL Draft is a vital part of rebuilding this States events calendar.

“The draft is an exciting event for AFL fans and particularly the game’s newest club, the Greater Western Sydney Giants. Staging the draft in their backyard is a wonderful way to welcome the club into the AFL family,” Mr Annesley said.

Mr Annesley said tapping into the diverse and rapidly growing Western Sydney region will have mutual benefits for the AFL and the local community.

“This is an exciting time for the AFL in NSW and the code has clearly recognised the potential of Western Sydney, which is home to one in 11 Australians,” Mr Annesley said.