The chances are that each week of the AFL season, someone is attending an Australian Rules game for the very first time. 

On Sunday 16 March, more than 1,000 international students attended Carlton's Round 1 clash with Port Adelaide at Etihad Stadium – as part of Carlton's New Blue program.

The program encourages Melbourne's international student community to become involved in our football culture and witness a sport that is uniquely Australian.  

The New Blue program is one of many that's supported by the Carlton Football Club Community Fund, which aims to assist disadvantaged communities and newly arrived refugees. 

Carlton's Fan Development and Diversity Co-ordintator Ned Murphy says New Blue is a great way for international students to experience AFL amongst its most passionate supporters. 

"It was fantastic to see students from all over the world joining in with the crowd and cheering on our team," Murphy said.

For more information on Carlton's New Blue program call 1300 CARLTON.