North Melbourne’s Next Generation Academy (NGA) Games campaign was under the experienced guidance of three-time AFLW All-Australian, Emma Kearney.

Having arrived back in Melbourne from an overseas holiday, the North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos’ captain was quick to accept the coaching role. 

“I got a call Thursday evening saying that North’s Next Generation Academy (NGA) team needed a coach for their girls’ team that was playing that Sunday,” Kearney told North Media.

“I had just gotten back from a month-long holiday in Europe, was still jetlagged, but obviously wanted to help out, so I said sure.”

The NGA games are designed to identify and support talented indigenous and multicultural players.

“It was a great day,” Kearney said.

“The girls’ team that I was coaching didn’t end up getting the win … though the boys did. But it was a positive day and I definitely think everyone enjoyed themselves.

“Being able to spend a couple of hours on a Sunday to support some talented and aspiring athletes was a great way to spend part of my weekend.”