Family ties strong in AFL

Rising AFL star Edyn Harapin lives and breathes the game, just like his 87-year-old grandpa and famous number one Sydney Swans supporter Kenny Williams.

Clovelly's Edyn Harapin, a rising AFL star with his famous Swans supporter grandad Kenny Williams at the Swans V Hawthorn match at the SCG. Picture: Danny Aarons.

Edyn Harapin lives and breathes AFL, just like his 87-year-old grandpa and famous number one Sydney Swans supporter Kenny Williams.

And with Swans legend Adam Goodes a regular around the Harapin dinner table since he was 17, the Clovelly boy has plenty of inspiration.

“Adam and Buddy Franklin are my role models ... I want to be a key small forward for Sydney,” Edyn said.

He’s been busy helping his grandfather out at Swans training during the school holidays, handing the players their water and jackets.

Edyn Harapin with the CIS team to its first ever win in 70 years of primary school competition.

Edyn led the team to victory.

This week’s Rebel Junior Sports Star nominee, Edyn is a rising star on the field, having kicked a goal in the last 20 seconds of the preliminary final to win the match by one point, led the Combined Independent Schools team to its first ever win in more than 70 years, and won last year’s Greater Sydney under 11 premiership.

The 12-year-old is also highly regarded at the club for looking out for others less fortunate than himself.

Nathan Harapin, Andi Illidge, Edyn Harapin, Kenny Williams, Kaiya Harapin, Yvonne Williams, Tyler Harapin, Paul Harapin and Diane Harapin at the Swans V Hawthorn match at the SCG. Picture: Danny Aarons

Dad Paul coaches the division three side, and Edyn is always there cheering them on at training and games.

“Everyone gets a turn at AFL, it’s not just about the top kids,” Edyn said. “It gives kids with challenges somewhere to play.”

His dreams also include studying teaching for special needs children.

Rebel is the major sponsor of the NewsLocal Junior Sports Star Awards. To nominate head to juniorsportsstar.com.au/nominate. Nominations close October 28, 2016.