The Aboriginal Power Cup, which is now in its third year, encourages indigenous students in years 10-12 to further their education and prepare for the workplace through Aussie Rules Football.

Students are required to actively participate at school in order to be able to play in the Cup, which will this year be a curtain-raiser for the Port Power versus Sydney game on June 12. The students will undertake a variety of tasks including forming A-Side teams, appointing coaches and team officials and designing uniforms and team songs.

The students at John Pirie Secondary School have been involved with the program since the first year and according to teacher, Matt Gale, there has been a definite improvement.

“Last year the girls team won the competition, but in general, the kids have built up a lot of confidence,” he said.

Russell Ebert sat with 24 students and explained to them why he enjoyed being a part of the Aboriginal Power Cup and what it meant for them.“You have people who care for you and are interested and want to help you,” he told the students, “The Abor-iginal Power Cup Grand Final is played between two teams that perform the best in all aspects of the competition – not just football.”

Gavin Wanganeen, who is the Amba-ssador for Youth Opportunity, gave the students an inspiring talk about his experiences as a footballer and his determination to achieve his goals.

“You can do anything you want...If you want to work hard, good opportunities will be available.”

The round table scene was up-lifting to watch as students broke out of their shells and revealed what they really wanted to do with their lives.

The Power Cup team and teachers then offered encouraging advice and ways they could incorporate their goals into the program to ensure their teams were successful.

Since the inception of the program school attendance within the students has increased by 23 per cent and 80 per cent of students said the program encouraged them to stay on and finish year 12.

The success has been noticed not only by local businesses, like the Ports Football Club but this year, energy company Santos, has signed on as a significant sponsor.

John Pirie Secondary School is positive the program will encourage their students to stay on and complete Year 12 and achieve their goals.