Sport
17 August, 2025
Iada leading way at AFL Cape York
AFL Cape York House Foundation is working to engage the youth through activity, supporting the next generation of young footballers by investing in the development of junior representative pathways for boys and girls across the under 12, 14 and 17 age groups.
Linked to the AFL Queensland talent pathway program, the Crusader Representative Program provides opportunities for further advancement, opening doors for young people to pursue higher-level sport, with students being given the opportunity to be selected to attend regional, state or national events.
With over 150 young athletes partaking in the foundation’s initiative, the players will benefit from access to team uniforms, accommodation and travel while representing their home communities.
Helping to reduce participation levies for families, this crucial support serves as a remarkable effort towards making representative AFL more accessible to talented youth in remote and regional communities across Far North Queensland.
As a part of the AFL Cape York House Game Development Program, the Crusader representative program is also based on the core values of responsibility, respect and pride, both in oneself as well as their family, school and community.
Responsible for creating new opportunities and pathways for women and girls in AFL across Cape York Peninsula, Torres Strait Islands and Gulf Savannah regions, the program is led by AFL Cape York’s first-ever female development coordinator and former student Iada Bowie.
Returning to the program and undertaking a leadership role after a year in Queensland Health, Ms Bowie said her journey was a powerful success story.
“I’m so grateful for the experience and the opportunity,” Ms Bowie said.
“To have gone through the program and now to be able to go back into community, even going home to Badu Island recently to deliver the program, is so special.”
AFL Cape York general manager Rick Hanlon said it was a huge imposition on families when trying find the extra cash to support their young people in sport away from their home communities.
“Travel costs can be excessive which can deter participation,” he said.
“It’s hoped that with continued support from our foundation, more young people will have greater opportunities to participate in expanded AFL pathway programs.”
