The first game of the AFL season is always a big event for players because it ends a long summer of hard pre-season training.

Starlight Ambassador Aaron Sandilands is also excited for round one because of the Starlight Purple Haze Game, proudly supported by Fremantle Ports.

In its 13th year, Fremantle fans are encouraged to create a sea of purple and help raise funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

“Just having everyone in purple and looking the same in the crowd, when you’re standing out in the middle it’s a sight to be seen,” Sandilands said.

“It makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

“It’s a great experience.”

More than 260 people enjoyed High Tea with Sandilands and fellow Starlight ambassadors at the Hyatt Regency on Sunday, which was hosted by the Fremantle Dockers’ Sirens.

The Sirens, an all female supporter group, raised $10,000 from the event, which adds to their total of $18,000 for this year’s Starlight Purple Haze Game.

“Last year we raised over $150,000,” the ruckman said.

“It would be nice to match or even better that.

“As long as people are putting their hands in their pockets and donating, every dollar counts.”

Next Sunday is the Purple Haze Game and all non-playing players will be tin rattling in the precinct into the lead up to the game.

If you can’t make it to the game you can donate here.