Running through an AFL banner to the roar of thousands is a dream shared by countless young footy fans. This Thursday night, that dream will become a reality for 16 Melbourne children. These children, who have spent much of their lives on the sidelines, will experience a once-in-a-lifetime moment as part of The Fox’s Fifi, Fev & Nick’s ‘The Underdogs’.
Returning for its third AFL edition, The Underdogs brings together children who have experienced exclusion from sport due to illness, bullying, or hardship and gives them the opportunity to experience everything that comes with being part of a football team.
This year’s edition of The Underdogs will be the biggest yet. In partnership with the Western Bulldogs and the Seven Network, the team will play the curtain-raiser ahead of Thursday night’s AFL clash against North Melbourne, running out in front of a packed Marvel Stadium and a huge national television audience, on Seven and 7plus Sport.
From pulling on their own guernsey to running onto the ground to a roaring crowd, and for many, belonging to a team for the first time, it’s a powerful moment reminding every child that they belong.
For many participants, The Underdogs has become much more than one unforgettable night. Children from previous editions have formed lasting friendships, rediscovered their confidence, and returned to school and community sport with a renewed sense of belonging.
For the past three weeks, Fifi, Fev & Nick have been introducing Melbourne to the members of this year’s team, sharing the remarkable stories behind each child nominated by their parents and guardians.
(Pictured: The Underdogs run onto the MCG in 2025, Credit: AFL Photos)
Fifi Box, co-host of The Fox’s Fifi, Fev & Nick, said: “The Underdogs is one of the most special things we’ve ever done on the show. We’ve seen first-hand how much this experience can change a child’s confidence and sense of belonging. Seeing them run onto the field, hear the crowd cheer and realise they’re a member of our team is a moment we will never forget.”
Brian Taylor, Seven Network commentator, said: “Since the very first Underdogs in 2023, our commentary team has had the privilege of watching Fifi, Fev and Nick create unforgettable moments for some truly deserving kids. We can’t wait to welcome this year’s team to Thursday Night Footy and share their incredible experience with viewers on Seven and 7plus.”
The Underdogs continues a blockbuster year of major events for The Fox’s Fifi, Fev & Nick, alongside Fev on Your Footy Team, Fifi Box’s One Night Only, and several live and local shows for Brekky in the Burbs. These unforgettable moments showcase the show’s unique ability to connect with audiences at scale.
Experience the excitement of The Underdogs on-air and across socials with Fifi, Fev & Nick 6-9am weekdays on 101.9 The Fox or download the LiSTNR app to listen for free.
The Underdogs will take to the field before the Western Bulldogs host North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on Thursday, 6 August, with the match broadcast live and free on Seven and 7plus Sport.
Watch the inspiring stories from the previous AFL editions of The Underdogs: HERE and HERE.
About The Hit Network
The Hit Network is Australia’s biggest radio network broadcasting across metro and regional markets via a unique collection of over 50 FM and DAB+ stations. It features a vibrant ‘feel great’ music format, unmissable entertainment and Australia’s most recognisable personalities – including Fifi Box, Brendan Fevola, Nick Cody, Abby Coleman, Matty Acton, Stav Davidson, Carrie Bickmore and Tommy Little.
The Hit Network entertains more than 5.79 million Australians each week across B105, 2Day, The Fox, SAFM, Mix94.5, Sea FM, 47 Hit stations across the country. Hit also offers a diverse range of DAB+ digital stations, giving listeners even more ways to enjoy their favourite music and personalities. All of The Hit Network’s content is available live or on demand via the LiSTNR app.