The University of Newcastle Australian Football Club (AFC), the Seahorses, is set to make waves in the AFL Hunter Central Coast in 2026.
In a boost to the senior league, the recently-established organisation will field teams in both the Women’s Plate and Men’s Shield from the opening round, when it kicks off on Saturday 11 April.
The competition newcomers have adopted the marine-based emblem in a nod to the uni’s iconic coat of arms, to be featured on their light blue, white and black jerseys.
Carrington’s Connolly Park will serve as the Seahorses’ home ground this year, while the players will train at Federal Park 3 in Wallsend during the remainder of pre-season.
“The formation of the University of Newcastle (UoN) AFC has been a long-time coming and we couldn’t be more excited to see this dream finally realised,” inaugural president Jamika McAulay-Earnest said.
“It’s an incredible time to be part of this club.
“It has been inspiring to see the dedication of our committee as we establish the Seahorses.
“And, we’ve been thrilled by the huge amount of player interest in the club – especially for our women’s team which is particularly exciting.
“Students travel from across Australia to study at the UoN.
“Now, we can give these talented pupils the opportunity to represent their university and play Australian football in a strong and competitive league.
“We cannot wait to see our foundation players officially begin our legacy within the AFL Hunter Central Coast.”
The region is home to 18 community AFL organisations across both senior and junior competitions, with more than 50 Auskick centres.
Head of AFL NSW/ACT Andrew Varasdi admitted the establishment of University of Newcastle AFC was an historic moment.
“It’s testament to the sustained growth of Australian football in this area, which continues to go from strength-to-strength,” he said.
“We thank the Seahorses for their advocacy and support in establishing the club… and congratulate their inaugural and founding committee for bringing their vision to life.
“The arrival of the University of Newcastle AFC will continue to elevate AFL participation and pathways in the region.
“They’re also the first new organisation to enter AFL Hunter Central Coast since 2018.
“So, we look forward to seeing them inspire the next phase of growth when their on-field journey begins as the season starts in just over three weeks’ time.”
The Hunter Central Coast remains a burgeoning breeding ground for elite AFL and AFLW talent, having produced star midfielder and Sydney vice-captain Isaac Heeney, as well as Max King and Alex Neyland who were both drafted to the Swans in the 2025 Telstra AFL and AFLW Drafts respectively.
In 2025, AFL participation in NSW and the ACT surpassed 78,000 – a new record for the state and territory.
It also represents a 10% rise in involvement since 2024 and exceeds pre-COVID levels by almost 25%.
To play for the University of Newcastle Seahorses, express your interest by emailing [email protected].
For more sports stories:
- Ex-Knights assistant Peters named coach of PNG NRL side
- Doors open to $3.1m amenities block at Max McMahon Oval
- Valley Aquatic Club sending largest junior squad to Nationals
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
