A cohort of International Students as part of their ‘Australian Studies’ subject at Monash University were treated to their first football game, watching Richmond defeat Hawthorn over the weekend.

A program, headed up by academic Dr. Susan Carland, sees international students from around the world visit the Richmond Football Club and watch a game of football at the MCG.

Students were welcomed to Punt Road Oval prior to the game and treated to a lecture by Carland’s husband, media personality and devoted Tigers supporter Waleed Aly.

Aly spoke to the students about both the early beginnings of the game, Marngrook, and the modern-day equivalent as well as providing an understanding of the Club’s rich history.

Aly also spoke about the growing diversity on and off the field and the role the game plays in the ever emerging and dynamic Australian cultural narrative.

“One of the weeks of the Australian Studies [subject]…is devoted to sport…and Australian Rules Football and the MCG is so essential to Australian sport” said Aly of the purpose behind bringing students to the renowned sporting precinct.

Adding to the students’ first football experience, players Daniel Rioli and Nathan Broad also payed the group a visit. Interviewed by Aly, Rioli and Broad provided an insight into the lives of elite football players, their vigorous schedules and the joy they feel playing the game.

Students were then provided with seats next to the Richmond cheer squad and were treated to a Richmond win against Hawthorn.

Of participating in such a program and being able to introduce the students to the club Aly stated, “This is possibly my favourite place on earth…and this [Graeme Richmond] room I’ve always loved, any chance I can get to be in this room I’ll take.”