The long wait for footy fans is almost over, with the AFL season to commence on Thursday March 23 when Carlton hosts Richmond at the MCG.

The MCG playing surface will be made available for a kick-to-kick opportunity after 11 Sunday matches, up from eight games last year.

To ensure the quality of the playing surface is maintained to the MCG’s high standard, kick-to-kick will not be offered during June or July, nor on the Sunday before the Anzac Eve/Anzac Day matches, which this season fall on a Monday and Tuesday.

“The MCG is Australia’s favourite patch of turf, and while we do need to balance access for fans with our heavy schedule of events to preserve the grounds’ condition during winter, we know that people of all ages will relish the chance to be out on the surface,” said MCC CEO Stephen Gough.

Kids in free in National Sports Museum

There will be a number of other initiatives available at every Sunday match at the MCG this football season:

•    Children under 15 will be granted free admission to the National Sports Museum when arriving with an adult, which aligns with the “kids in free” initiative to all Sunday AFL games in all sections of the MCG.

•    A kids’ meal deal will again be offered in Food Store outlets in all areas of the stadium.

•    There will be special pre-game activities in the museum, with possibilities including book signings and cartoonists (specific details to be advised next month).

It’s all part of the continued focus on a family-friendly offering at the MCG.