AFL Unites for Inaugural Play it Forward Finals Eve Luncheon

The AFL industry will come together in a powerful show of community spirit at the inaugural Play it Forward Finals Eve Luncheon. This new marquee event on the football calendar will shine a spotlight on the positive impact of the game beyond the field.

Hosted by the Jim Stynes Foundation with support from the AFL, the luncheon will take place on Friday 29 August, in the Members Dining Room at the MCG, on the eve of the 2025 Toyota AFL Finals Series.

The luncheon will celebrate the game’s positive impact beyond the field, sharing stories of leadership, generosity and community spirit, all in honour of Jim Stynes’ legacy.

Attendees will hear from some of the game’s most respected voices, including Daisy Pearce, Dyson Heppell and Max Gawn, as they reflect on finals footy and the game’s broader social impact.

The luncheon will also recognise outstanding contributions to the community through two prestigious awards:

• The 2025 Jim Stynes Community Leadership Award shortlist will be revealed, with the winner announced at the 2025 Brownlow Medal.

• The winner of the inaugural Jim Stynes Club Community Program Award will be crowned. This award will honour the efforts of AFL clubs making meaningful change in their communities.

All proceeds from the event will directly support the work of the Jim Stynes Foundation, which continues to build on Jim’s legacy by empowering young people and driving positive social outcomes through the AFL industry.

This special event is set to become a powerful annual tradition — celebrating not just the game, but the good it brings to communities around Australia.

Tickets are selling fast.