Fremantle Dockers coach Justin Longmuir and Indigenous All Stars midfielder Jy Simpkin want games to continue

Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir has paid tribute to the commitment of the Indigenous All Stars, saying the way they promoted Saturday’s game played a key role in attracting more than 37,000 people to Optus Stadium and has opened the door for more games.

The All Stars beat Fremantle 16.12 (108) to 9.11 (65) as some of the AFL’s biggest names showcased their skills. Sixteen of the 18 clubs were represented in a team that included seven All Australians, nine premiership players, six top ten draft picks and three Mark of the Year winners.

It had been 10 years since the All Stars had played, and the game drew a huge reaction from current and past players. Michael O’Loughlin, Chad Wingard, Stephen Michael, Byron Pickett, Michael Johnson, Michael McLean and Michael Long were all in Perth for the game.

Longmuir hopes the All Stars will get more chances to play together.

“I think it’s been a really special week, with the build up and the way the All Stars have got out in the community,” Longmuir said.

“They’ve not just played a game of footy, they’ve spread the word throughout the community. The crowd was a representation of how much effort they’ve put in.

“It’s a credit to them. It’s easy for them to come over and just want to play footy but they were at functions and schools and visits. Shout out to the AFL as well. They’ve put on a really good show and we are honoured to be involved in it.

“How often? I’m not sure. This was player led. I know Sonny had a big say in wanting to get one of these games under his belt. It probably fits in Perth every couple of years.”

All Stars coach Xavier Clarke said playing at Optus Stadium added to the atmosphere and prestige of the occasion. The 2015 game as played at Leederville and previous matches have been held in the Northern Territory.

The AFL must now decide how to fit games into the schedule during future seasons. AFL CEO Andrew Dillon, Executive General Manager of Football Laura Kane and chairman Richard Goyder were all in Perth for the game, as was AFL Players’ Association CEO Paul Marsh.

Polly Farmer medallist Jy Simpkin wants the league to ensure it becomes a more regular part of the fixture.

“When we do get together, it is so special. Hopefully the AFL and us can have this on a more regular basis,” he said.

“We do love getting together and playing. It’s such an awesome spectacle. I reckon the crowd would have loved it. Everyone loved it. Everyone involved had such a good time. Fingers crossed we can have it on a more regular basis.”