By Dana Hymans
East Perth District’s annual Junior Parade Day will take place this Saturday during the club’s clash with Subiaco at Medibank Stadium.
At half time, the district’s eight junior teams will be welcomed on to the field by a ground announcer to parade in club colours in front of the crowd.
Junior Parade Day is organised by East Perth District Football Development Council every year and is designed to encourage a love of the game in its youngest players.
District manager Darren Von Bergheim said the event was an opportunity for both the East Perth Football Club and its district development council to thank local clubs for their contribution to the game.
“From the district’s perspective, we appreciate the efforts of the clubs in providing the environment for young participants to play and enjoy the game,” he said.
“From the club’s perspective, it’s also a thank-you and an acknowledgement given that the clubs have provided current and future players for East Perth.”
East Perth development manager Stephanie Walding said having the parade at an East Perth game allowed the club and its supporters to recognise the junior clubs in the district.
“It’s also a way for the kids to feel that connection to their WAFL club. The junior players then understand that if they want to play football at the highest level they will represent the East Perth Football Club,” she said.
East Perth Football Club will partner with the District to provide extra entertainment for the junior players, including a bouncy castle and a signed Royals jumper to be won by one of the clubs.
The Past Players and Officials Association will provide a range of delicious, healthy snacks for all the junior players on the day.
