Gold Coast SUNS Streetsmarts Academy player, Sunny Hewett, has taken SUNS footy all the way to Nepal.

While in Nepal, Hewett connected with the local AFL team, the Himalayan Leopards, where Hewett shared her love for the game with the local community, bringing a touch of SUNS culture to the local club.

Hewett’s connection to Nepal began with a story from her schoolteacher, who had travelled to Nepal and spoke about the rise of AFL in the country.

“I remember him talking about AFL in Nepal two years ago, and when I was planning my travels, I thought it would be an amazing opportunity to combine my love for footy with giving back to a community,” Hewett said.

As Hewett arrived in Nepal, she was presented upon arrival with a Himalayan Leopards jumper, which is the local club. The SUNS Academy player met the founder of the club and organised a training session for the next day, where Hewett presented the Leopards with SUNS kits.

“The smiles on their faces during training said it all.” Hewett said.

“The boys were so happy with the jumpers—they were all taking photos in their new gear.”

Himalayan Leopards were introduced to AFL ASIA in 2018, the purpose of their club being to promote and grow AFL in Nepal, whilst creating and growing mutual relationships through the sport. Hewett’s purpose of visiting the local club was to share her experience and shed a light on what AFL can do for you as a player.

“Footy has given me so much—confidence, resilience, and amazing opportunities—and I wanted to share that with others, Hewett said.

Hewett’s vacation to Nepal has shown the far-reaching impact of the AFL, not only developing talent through their local clubs but also spreading the benefits and happiness that footy brings. Though the Himalayan Leopards may be miles away, they now have a little bit of SUNS spirit with them, thanks to Hewett.