Shepparton News SmartEdition

Celebration of culture

By Aydin Payne

Mooroopna footballer and Wollithiga man Kydan Atkinson will be one of many Indigenous footballers and netballers who will take to the courts and ovals for the Goulburn Valley League’s Indigenous Round this weekend. The annual round celebrates the culture and achievements of First Nations People.

Kydan Atkinson has already achieved plenty in his short football career.

A senior debut with his beloved Mooroopna to multiple appearances for the Murray Bushrangers and Flying Boomerangs, the emerging youngster is quickly making a name for himself.

But this weekend might just top the list of his career highlights when he runs out for the Cats in the Goulburn Valley League’s Indigenous Round.

Atkinson identifies as a Wollithiga man, part of the Yorta Yorta Nation, and is preparing to run out for the Cats in Saturday’s crucial clash against Rochester.

The 18-year-old said he can’t wait to line-up at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve and soak up the pre-match ceremony which consists of a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony.

“It means a lot to me. We’ve had so many great Indigenous footballers come through Mooroopna and I’m proud to represent my culture,” Atkinson said.

“I feel really grateful that the league and club are holding an Indigenous Round. I’ve never played in one before and to have your home club be involved is really special to me and it feels good. I’m so excited for Saturday.”

Atkinson revealed his connection to the Mooroopna footy club stretches back since Auskick.

The smooth mover has risen up through the ranks over the years, highlighted by his time in representative squads as a teenager.

As a member of Richmond Football Club’s Next Generation Academy in 2019, Atkinson was selected in the Flying Boomerangs squad.

In 2021, Atkinson made his NAB League debut with the Murray Bushrangers as a bottom-age player.

The versatile forward has featured six times for the Bushies in 2022 and five times at senior level for the Cats.

He has averaged 15 disposals, four marks, 3.8 tackles and almost a goal a game in the blue and white hoops.

Atkinson’s standout game came at the weekend when he gathered 20 disposals, seven marks and kicked a goal in Mooroopna’s win over Shepparton.

“It’s a great football club. I love playing footy here,” he said.

“I’ve built a really strong relationship with all the boys I’ve played with here. I’ve learnt a lot from John, he’s been one of my best coaches.

“Darren (Ogier) as a forward line coach has taught me a lot about how to improve my forward skills.”

SHEPPARTON NEWS

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2022-07-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-07-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://sheppartonnews.pressreader.com/article/282394108141109

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