AFL legend Nathan Buckley joins Alice Springs Masters Games as Ambassador

Footy legend and household name Nathan Buckley has joined the 2024 Alice Springs Masters Games (ASMG) as its ambassador. The much-loved event will take place from 12-19 October 2024 and registrations are open now.

After a youth spent on Darwin playing fields representing Southern Districts and Nightcliff Tigers, as well as time spent in Alice Springs, Buckley went on to embark on a stellar career with Collingwood. He will return to the Northern Territory to promote the ASMG and Red Centre region.

The ASMG began in 1986, attracting thousands of people with a love of sport to the stunning Red Centre to compete in a fun, inclusive competition. It’s also the perfect opportunity for competitors to immerse themselves in the culture, history and stunning landscape of Central Australia.

Visitors can tick off memorable experiences such as a sunrise hot air balloon trip or sunset camel ride. They can also learn more about the culture of the local Arrernte people, or visit the sweeping MacDonnell Ranges, secluded water holes, and cultural landmarks just a short drive from Alice Springs (Mparntwe). Further afield they can enjoy a road trip to the awe-inspiring Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Buckley, with a genuine love of the Territory, will introduce a new wave of athletes to Australia’s oldest Masters Games. He was recently in the Red Centre filming videos packed with advice to help entrants make the most of their time in the Alice Springs region, as well as tips on how to prepare for the Games. The footy legend will speak at the opening ceremony and spend time meeting competitors and volunteers.

Buckley said he’s looking forward to being involved.

“Last month I spent 48 hours with my feet on the ground in Alice,” he said. “I loved getting to see the people around town and visiting some of the amazing places only the Red Centre can boast.

“The resort where I stayed became a home away from home and a place from where I could explore all that Alice Springs had to offer… and it is as spectacular as it is unique. I can’t wait to get back to the Red Centre to support Alice Springs Masters Games.”

During the 10 days of the ASMG, competitors can participate in around 30 different sports ranging from darts and golf to lawn bowls and cricket. The ASMG are for a range of abilities and ages, with some sports, such as swimming and mountain biking, accepting competitors from 25-years-old and up, while for others it is 30.

The games fee is $99. Returning ASMG participants from 2018 will receive a $10 discount code. Sporting fees, set by each club, also apply for each sport an entrant registers for.

To enter or find out more, head to www.alicespringsmastersgames.com.au