The Roleystone Junior Football Club U12's were afforded a fantastic opportunity to play upon the hallowed ground of Subiaco Oval at half time of the West Coast Eagles vs Port Power game on Sunday 5th April.

Forty extremely enthusiastic parents and boys ushered in behind the goals at the Subiaco end amongst a very entertaining and passionate group of the Eagles Cheer squad to watch the first quarter before being raced off to the change rooms to 'kit up' and prepare for the big game.

To the slight disappointment of some, indifference to others and absolute rapture to the one and only Port supporter Mark Fraser, the boys were to represent The Power. Their opponents the Victoria Park boys, represented the Eagles.

After a crescendo of enthusiastic noise and negotiation over jumpers, some instruction from the AFL official and Coach Bruce Fraser, the boys were champing at the bit, and ready to go. Lined up in the race alongside their opponents there was a mixture of excitement, wonderment and anticipation.

As the siren sounded Auskick boys and girls, officials, and the two little league teams spilled onto the ground. The Power (Roleystone) led by Captain James Myall-Brown raced into position, and before the goal posts could even be put into place the game was underway. It was a flurry of football chaos, with bodies diving in and hunting in packs for a touch of the sacred leather 'pill'. Several of the boys got a kick or two with Trent McDonnell closest to scoring. James Myall-Brown took an exceptional mark in the last line of defence. Jayden Batley ran well off half back and Riley Gibbons got a kick or two.

Just as the main game ended in an Eagles victory, the Little League Power struggled to put on a score. But who cared; it was the experience of a lifetime (discounting when they represented the Dockers in 2008). Bradley Hickey was noticed staring in to the stands in awe of the huge crowd and simply soaking up the atmosphere. Just as it began, it finished like a click of the fingers or blink of an eye.

Then it was a quick photo in the centre of Subiaco Oval and racing off back into the change rooms for a quick Q&A with a couple of Eagles rookies, change back into their civilian clothes and straight to the food van for some typical footy food.

For all, a great experience topped off for Eagles supporters by a senior team victory. What a way to kick off the season. Thanks to all for helping make it happen.

Bruce A. Fraser

U12's Coach, RJFC.