North Melbourne is thrilled by today’s announcement that The Huddle is the inaugural recipient of the Jim Stynes Foundation Community Club Program Award.

The Huddle was established in 2010 as the community arm of the North Melbourne Football Club, to enhance education and career outcomes for young people through the power of sport. 

Initially led by now club president Dr Sonja Hood AM, The Huddle’s early focus was on working with communities in close proximity to North Melbourne’s Arden St home. The Huddle has since expanded its reach, and now has a presence in Werribee, in the heart of the club’s Wyndham Next Generation Academy zone.

Since its inception, North Melbourne players, staff and coaches have helped The Huddle deliver a range of free education and personal development programs for children and young adults. 

The Huddle has had national reach and local impact:

• Over 180,000 young people from more than 160 cultures have participated in programs.
• 1200 volunteers have contributed 22,000 hours to help young people learn, grow and belong.
• 1300 educators are using The Huddle designed programs in 430 schools.
• 500 sportspeople have contributed their time to inspire and support young people.
• 480 young people have gained employment through targeted partnerships.

A defining moment for The Huddle came during the lockdown of public housing towers in early July 2020. The Huddle staff formed part of the Emergency Management Team, providing community insights and culturally appropriate practices to support residents.

This underlined the importance of the work North Melbourne and The Huddle does in the local community, and the trust established over The Huddle’s first 10 years. 

Coming out of Covid, in 2022 The Huddle launched Game Day, an immersive AFL-themed STEM program combining sport and education. Each year, 3000 primary school students become ‘Shinboners’, solving challenges and learning life skills. 

North Melbourne players and staff regularly participate in this and other programs, enriching students’ experiences while learning from the talents and aspirations of young people.

The Huddle CEO Cam McLeod thanked the Stynes family and Jim Stynes Foundation for their recognition and their commitment to empowering young people.

“Jim was a true pioneer in our industry. He knew that communities were stronger, more resilient and more connected when young people are engaged,” McLeod said. 

“He also knew the influence of sport, in particular Australian Football, to shape positive attitudes and behaviours and to create safe, inclusive and welcoming environments for all. 

“The Huddle’s ability to engage so successfully with our community is because of the staff, volunteers, players, educators, coaches and partners who have helped our program participants feel a stronger sense of belonging in the places they learn, work and play.

“They honour Jim Stynes’ legacy to be champions on and off the field.

“Finally, and most importantly, I want to thank the young people who have come through The Huddle. Thank you for helping us learn, grow and belong together. This award is dedicated to you.”

>> LEARN MORE ABOUT THE HUDDLE