Reclink’s expanded Community Sports Series is bringing a long-overdue boost to high school sport in Southern Tasmania, opening up structured competition to Grade 7 and 8 students for the first time in years. This marks a shift in how state high school students access sport, ensuring participation isn’t limited to those already engaged with community clubs or private school programs. Minister for Sports and Events, Nick Duigan, sees this as a vital step in keeping young Tasmanians active and connected.
Reclink has built a reputation for making sport and recreation available to those who might otherwise miss out. Until now, the Community Sports Series focused on Grade 9 and 10 students, but the expansion means younger students will have a chance to get involved from this year. There’s more at play than just exercise—regular participation in structured sport is tied to improved mental health, social skills, and a stronger sense of community belonging.
The program is backed by AFL Tasmania, Basketball Tasmania, Cricket Tasmania, and Netball Tasmania, ensuring a mix of opportunities that cater to different interests. These organisations are partnering with Reclink to set up school rosters across all four sports, integrating structured competition into the school calendar.
Tasmanian Manager and Project Designer for Reclink, Brett Geeves, describes the inclusion of younger students as a significant milestone. He acknowledges the role played by state sporting associations and government support in making the expansion possible. According to Geeves, inclusive programs like these can make a real difference, opening doors to sport for students who may not have otherwise had the chance.
One of the standout elements of the Community Sports Series is its talent identification program. Students who show promise in their chosen sport can be awarded a scholarship to help them transition into pathway-level competition through community clubs. This creates a bridge between school sport and club participation, ensuring talented students don’t fall through the cracks due to financial barriers or lack of access to structured training.
With competitions running throughout all four school terms, there will be plenty of opportunities for students to get involved. The year starts with AFL 9’s, set to kick off on Monday, 31 March. It’s a promising move for high school sport in Southern Tasmania, ensuring more students can experience the benefits of regular, structured competition. For many, this could be the first step towards long-term involvement in sport, whether at a community level or beyond.
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