Dingo’s Proud Of His Footy Family

Last week’s AFL National Inclusion Carnival saw athletes from right across Australia converge on Launceston for a week-long carnival and celebration of football while also providing key educational and social opportunities. 

The 2018 edition of the Carnival marks just the second time that it is being held outside of Victoria, with the Gold Coast staging the 2017 edition.

Tasmania was well led throughout the Carnival, with captain Alan ‘Dingo’ Dengate and vice captains Vincent Hall and Jordan Irwin playing key roles in building camaraderie within a playing group consisting of players from across the state.

‘Dingo’ is no stranger to such events, but concedes this year’s Carnival was particularly special.

“It means a lot to me and to all of us in the Tasmanian team.

“This is our home state and we all enjoy playing football in front of our family and friends. It is really special,” he said.

 

Last week’s Carnival was Dingo’s fifth and the hard-running midfielder/wingman acknowledges that the event has gone a long way, particularly for Tasmania.

“This is my fifth carnival but when we first went to Melbourne there were only five of us and the rest was made up of people from Victoria.

“Now we have a whole team and we are playing in our home state. It has been a big journey and a lot has changed since I first played at an Inclusion Carnival.

“It’s a bigger team – we have selection troubles now which is a good thing. Everyone around the team has been so happy. It’s great to see that, that is what footy is all about – seeing how happy people are.

“People have seen how much we enjoy playing at these events and have wanted to get involved as well. It’s terrific to be a part of,” he said.

 

Football’s influence on Dingo’s life stretches far beyond wins and losses, with the very essence of the game making a positive impact on him.

“Footy means everything to me. When I was growing up through school I was bullied a lot but by going down to my local footy club I was taken on board for who I am.

“Football has helped me in a lot of ways. It has helped me grow my social skills by being part of a team. You train together, you play together and you stick up for each other — it is like you are with your family.”

As an Essendon supporter Dingo looks up to former Bomber skipper Jobe Watson as a role model, with the honour of captaining Tasmania not lost on him.

“To captain these guys and watch their growth is a really special feeling.

“To represent your state is really special, especially for these guys. Footy means everything to them.

“I loved the way Jobe Watson led the way as a captain. He was a true leader of men and I hope I can be a positive influence on the group.”

Tasmania finished the Carnival with two wins, both against NSW/ACT.