Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about junior footy at Magpies
How do I register my child?
All registrations are done online through PlayHQ. Visit our Register page to find the correct registration link for your child's age group. If your child played for another club last season, you'll need to complete a transfer (see below).
How much does registration cost?
Auskick and Superkick: $120. Mixed Juniors and Girls (U9-U17): $195. A 5% family discount applies automatically for second and subsequent children registered through PlayHQ.
How are age groups determined?
Age groups are based on the age your child is turning during the year. For example, if your child is turning 12 in 2026, they would play in the Under 12s. There is some flexibility for younger kids to play up if they are ready for it - for example, a child turning 8 could play in Superkick or mixed Under 9s.
What gear does my child need?
Players receive a club jumper / Auskick jumper before their first game. Under 9s and up will need to purchase Magpies shorts (through our online shop or at training), football boots, and a mouthguard. Mouthguards are compulsory for all players. Football boots and mouthguards can be purchased from sporting stores like Rebel Sport, or mouthguards from chemists. Black playhing socks are also needed and can be purchased from the club, or from sports stores.
When does the season start and finish?
The season runs typically runs from late April to late August or early September. Training starts early in the year before games commence in April, with older age groups starting first.
When will my child's team train?
Training times vary by age group. Please refer to our Season page for all training information for each team. Training locations and times will be confirmed closer to the season start.
What are the different programs?
Auskick (Ages 4-6): Fun introduction to AFL with skill-based activities, no competitive games.
Superkick (Ages 6-8): The next step with more structured games while still focusing on fun and participation.
Mixed Juniors (Ages 8-17): Teams compete in the AFL Canberra junior competition with a ladder. Modified rules apply for younger ages (U9-U11) with no finals. Finals start from Under 12s.
Girls Football: Dedicated pathways for girls at all ages with modified rules until Under 12s including no tackling.
Superkick (Ages 6-8): The next step with more structured games while still focusing on fun and participation.
Mixed Juniors (Ages 8-17): Teams compete in the AFL Canberra junior competition with a ladder. Modified rules apply for younger ages (U9-U11) with no finals. Finals start from Under 12s.
Girls Football: Dedicated pathways for girls at all ages with modified rules until Under 12s including no tackling.
Is there tackling in junior football?
It depends on the age group. Auskick has no tackling. Younger junior age groups (Under 9s to Under 11s) play modified rules with limited or no tackling, plus zones to help players learn positioning. For girls, modified rules including no tackling apply until Under 12s. Rules progressively move towards full rules football from Under 12s onwards.
Are there finals?
All age groups play in a scored competition with a ladder throughout the season. Finals are played from Under 12s onwards. Younger age groups (Under 9s to Under 11s) do not have a finals series.
Can my child play with a friend?
We aim to accommodate requests to play with friends or relatives wherever possible. Please contact us with your request and we'll do our best to place them in the same team.
Can my child play up or down an age group?
There is flexibility for younger children to play up if they are ready. Playing down an age group requires approval from AFL Canberra and typically requires medical evidence. Contact us to discuss your situation.
How do I transfer from another club?
Contact us with your child's details and we'll help process the transfer through PlayHQ. The transfer requires approval from your previous club. Transfers typically open in February.
How will I know what's going on?
How can I help or volunteer?
We're a community club run by volunteers and there are many ways to help! Roles include team manager, coach, assistant coach, runner, boundary umpire, canteen duties, and more. Volunteers with regular contact with players need a Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) card. Contact us if you'd like to get involved.
Do coaches need qualifications?
Yes, all coaches must hold a current Working with Vulnerable People (WWVP) card and complete AFL foundation coaching accreditation. The club can help new coaches get accredited.
Where do games get played?
Home games are played at our home ground in Kippax. Away games are played at various ovals around Canberra and Queanbeyan depending on the opposition. Game locations are published in the draw on PlayHQ.
Where can I find the draw/fixture?
The season draw is published on PlayHQ. The draw is typically released a few weeks before the season starts.