For Kuwarna SANFL recruit Ned Atkinson, this weekend’s clash against Sturt will mean more than just an average game of League footy.
It will be a homecoming of some sorts, with the 18-year-old playing his first game of SANFL football at a venue where the Atkinson name sits among greats.
Atkinson’s father Brodie played 124 games and won a Magarey Medal for the Double Blues, while Ned himself played all his junior football at Unley Oval, before making the switch to West Lakes ahead of this season.
“I’m super excited to get back there and play,” Atkinson said at the SANFL’s First Nations Round launch on Thursday.
“It’s set up to be a cracking contest against two good teams, and there might be a bit of heat in it, but there’s no hard feelings there at all.
“Sturt has, and always will, have a strong place in my heart, from being around the Club with my Dad coaching and hearing about what he did on the field for them, it’s a special place.
“Now playing for the Crows, the AFL team I grew up supporting, it is pretty cool and I just can’t wait to play on Saturday.”
Since arriving at Kuwarna, Atkinson has impressed, earning a senior debut in Round One and claiming an AAMI Rookie of the Week nomination in that same game.
Now five matches into his SANFL career, he said had noticed a significant improvement in his game.
“I’m really loving it (playing footy) at the moment, it’s been a really transition into League footy, and I think that is a credit to the senior players and coaches who have really helped me out,” Atkinson said.
“From going into the Club throughout the week to the games on the weekend, I’ve learned so much about myself as both a footballer and person, which has been really exciting.
“The vibe amongst the group is amazing as well, everyone is just so keen to help each other get better, and I feel like I’m improving every time I play.”
The match will also mark Atkinson’s first appearance in the League’s First Nation’s Round.
He said it was a privilege to don the Club’s First Nation’s guernsey and take to the field on what would be a special weekend.
“It (First Nations Round) is a really important occasion for both the team and the spectators to acknowledge the First Nations people of Australia,” Atkinson said.
“It’s a round where everyone can come together as one and showcase their love of football.
“Playing in my first one this weekend is really exciting, the guernsey is awesome, I love the design and I can’t wait to pull it on and hopefully get a win.”
Kuwarna’s SANFL side takes on Sturt this Saturday afternoon, with the first bounce at 2.20pm.
The match will be broadcast live on Channel 7 Adelaide.
