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Date and Venue of AFL Japan Cup 2013 Finalized

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The AFL Japan Cup 2013 is set to be held on October 5, Saturday at "Seimei No Mori Resort" in Chiba, Japan.

The event will be contested by 6 teams including international visitors the Box Hill North Football Club. The other 5 teams include an all local Japanese team, an all expatriate team, and a Japanese-Australian combined team.

The one day tournament will have 9-a-side games, structured in 2 divisions, 2 semi-finals, and a grand final. Leading Goal Kicker, Player of the Tournament, Best on Ground of Grand Final, and other awards are to be presented.


Box Hill North Football Club is a club with strong ties with AFL Japan accepting home-stay university students who are interested in experiencing Melbourne footy. The club was a regular of this tournament run by AFL Japan until the tragic earthquake in Eastern Japan on March 11, 2011. Making their return, they are hungry to take home to Australia the Tournament Cup of the largest footy event in Japan.

Local teams are ready to ambush their visitors though as the AFL Japan Top League are keen to showcase their ever improving quality. Top of the 8 team ladder this season is Tokyo Bay Suns, a newly formed team that only joined the league this year.

AFL Japan will communicate further details of this important event by late Septem ...

AFL Round 23- International Broadcast Schedule

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The international broadcast schedule for the AFL Round 23 can be seen below. All times are correct at the time of publishing and WFN takes no responsibility for changes to the schedule.
 
...
TV- TERRITORY(NETWORK)Syd vs. Haw St K vs. Freo Gees vs. Bris Port vs. Car Ess vs. RicWCE vs. Ade GCS vs. GWSCol vs. NM WB vs. MelHIGHLIGHTS
Asia (Australia Network)30/8 @ 1730 HKT (LIVE) --31/8 @ 1400 HKT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 1730 HKT (LIVE) --1/9 @ 1300 HKT (LIVE) -3/9 @ 2230 HKT
Pacific (Australia Network)30/8 @ 2130 FJT (LIVE) --31/8 @ 1800 FJT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 2130 FJT (LIVE) --1/9 @ 1700 FJT (LIVE) -3/9 @ 2200 FJT
India (Australia Network)30/8 @ 1500 IST (LIVE) --31/8 @ 1130 IST (LIVE) 31/8 @ 1500 IST (LIVE) --1/9 @ 1030 IST (LIVE) -4/9 @ 1800 IST
UK & Ireland (BT Sport)30/8 @ 1030 BST (LIVE) --31/8 @ 0730 BST (LIVE) 31/8 @ 1030 BST (LIVE) --1/8@ 1330 BST (Delay) -3/9 @ 2200BST
Caribbean (ESPN)----31/8 @ 0530 EST(LIVE)----5/9 @ 1800 EST
Europe (Eurosport 2)---31/8 @ 0830 CET (LIVE) -----3/9 @ 1330 CET
UK & Ireland (Eurosport 2)---3/9 @ 2000 BST (Delay) -----3/9 @ 2100 BST
USA (Fox Soccer)30/8 @ 0530 USET (LIVE) --31/8 @ 0230 USET (LIVE) ---31/8 @ 1100 USET (LIVE) -2/9 @ 1800 USET
Middle East (Orbit)30/8 @ 1230 KSA (LIVE) --31/8 @ 0930 KSA (LIVE) 31/8 @ 1230 KSA (LIVE) --1/9 @ 0600 KSA (LIVE) -2/9 @ 2100 KSA
Worldwide (excl Australia) (OTLSM)30/8 @ 0950 GMT (LIVE) ---------
New Zealand (SKY SPORTS)---------3/9 @ 17:30 NZT
New Zealand (Sommet Sports)30/8 @ 2130NZT (LIVE) 5/9 @ 0030 NZT (Delay) 31/8 @1600 NZT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 1840 NZT (LIVE) 31/8 @2140 NZT (LIVE) 3/9 @ 1200 NZT (Delay) 2/9 @ 0300 NZT (Delay) 1/9 @ 1700 NZT (LIVE) 4/9 @ 0000 NZT (Delay) 3/9 @ 2005 NZT
Africa (Super Sport)30/8 @ 1130 CAT (LIVE) --31/8 @ 0830 CAT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 1130 CAT (LIVE) --1/9 @ 0500 CAT (LIVE)  3/9 @ 2030 CAT
Canada (TSN2)30/8 @ 0530 USET (LIVE) --31/8 @ 0230 USET (LIVE) -----TSN.ca
Latin America (VIVA SPORTS)1/9 @ 1030 MST (Delay) ---------
ONLINE          
Worldwide (excl. Australia)30/8 @ 0950 GMT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 0345 GMT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 0410 GMT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 0640 GMT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 0940 GMT (LIVE) 31/8 @ 0940 GMT (LIVE) 1/9 @ 0310 GMT (LIVE) 1/9 @ 0520 GMT (LIVE) 1/9 @ 0640 GMT (LIVE) -

Axios Euro Cup Team Preview – Norway Trolls

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In the next of our series of articles looking at the preparation and prospects of the various nations competing at this year’s Axios Euro Cup in Bordeaux, we look at the story of the Norway Trolls. David Stone, General Manager of AFL Norway, gives us his insights.

The Journey:

“The game is growing, and improving. The Australians in Norway are getting good at working with the newer Norwegian players and getting them up to speed, but as with every country, we're always looking for more players.”

“The Ås team continues to attract good Norwegian talent due to their connection with the university out there. We've uncovered some good local players here in Oslo too, but we have to work a little harder to find them. We've just done a deal with Oslo's biggest gym to play indoors during winter - with the gym's members invited to learn and join in - so that should gain us a few good new players.”

"In terms of expansion, a few guys have started kicking the ball around in Bergen, which may turn into something, and one of our key Oslo players has just relocated. We'll be working on him to set up a team in his new city.

The Preparation:

“We've been playing since the snow melted in April, and have seen a definite improvement in the standard of our domestic competition, the Kenguru Cup. Our team in Ås unearths some good Norwegian talent each year, and the newer Norwegian players have been improving with every game. Some of them are heading to Bordeaux, which is exciting. Fielding a strong team at the Euro Cup has been our goal all year.”

“2012 was our first ever Euro Cup, and we were proud just to be there. At the same time we knew our guys had learned the game pretty well, and they could compete.”

The Squad:

“We're an even team, without any one obvious superstar. Some of our second year guys like Brage Blomdal have improved a lot this year and should do well. Eivind Myrvold from Ås is turning into a very good player, and Andreas Kristoffer Berge is playing the 9s tournament in Algarve so he'll be in form! Our full back Atle Mengshoel Brevik is under an injury cloud, but our fingers are crossed for him. Tor Ivar Amundsen was a late withdrawal last year, but should add some strength to the team this year.”

The Goal:

" At Euro Cup 2013, we have two goals. First, we want to get as much experience as we can playing the best teams during the pool games. We want to see how well we can match them. Second, we want to equal or exceed the two wins we had at Euro Cup 2012. We placed 13th last year, and we'll be trying really hard to top that."

"One of our big goals is to send a team to Melbourne for the International Cup in 2014. To do that we'll likely need a few more home-grown players. With the new talent coming out of Ås and our offseason deal at the Elixia gym in Oslo, we will hopefully get there."

The Final Word:

Norway’s initial introduction to last year’s Euro Cup was a rude awakening with heavy losses to Scotland, Denmark and England in a tough draw. But the team regrouped and would have been heartened by the victories over Austria and Iceland to take out the Euro Plate at their first ever Euro Cup. Since then the game back in Norway has taken enormous steps forward. It would not surprise to see the Trolls snare a pool game and advance further up the ladder at this year’s event. ...

Norway’s Kenguru Cup Round 4: One win each sets up huge final round

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Here is the latest wrap up of football in Norway with a report about the fourth round of the Kenguru Cup. A huge final round has now been assured as the 2013 winner will be decided. Our thanks to the team at AFL Norway for this article. 

  A pulsating fourth round of the 2013 Kenguru Cup at Ekeberg saw each team walk away with a win, setting up a huge final round to decide the cup. 

The sun was shining at Ekeberg, on yet another perfect day for football. Oslo West, the league’s cellar dwellers, came into round four needing to win both games to be a mathematical chance of winning the title, and faced the UMBI Ås Battlers in Game One. 

The Battlers sported several exciting new players to cover the absence of some experienced faces, and predictably, it took them some time to adjust to the game. West pushed forward regularly, but as has been their trademark, failed to capitalize on their ascendency. A late goal to Ås made scores almost level at the half. 

In the second half, Ås’s young runners pushed forward repeatedly, daring their opponents to go with them. West didn’t have the fitness to keep up, and with Adam O’Toole intercepting and rebounding most of West’s long kicks into the forward line, West were out of answers. Ås comfortably outscored the Westsiders in the second half, running away 5.4 (34) to 2.6 (18).

Suddenly one game clear on top of the table, Ås faced off against Oslo East in game two to try to stretch their lead in the Kenguru Cup race.  

In form and warmed up from game one against West, Ås started positively, adding two goals in the first half to East’s one.  

However, in a reversal of what they did to West, it was Ås that wilted in the second half, letting through four Oslo East goals, while only managing one of their own.  

East’s 5.5.35 to 3.8.26 win moved them level win Ås with five wins for the season, with the night’s final game, Oslo East v Oslo West, to determine who would lead the table heading into the final round. Could Oslo East overcome their crosstown rivals?  

Oslo West has had a frustrating year. The team is filled with good players, yet there has been a consistent trend of not being able to put it all together and actually win games. The team won its very first game of the year, and had been on a losing streak ever since.  

As the carbon copy losses (playing well against East but not scoring when they were on top, then playing poorly against Ås) piled up, West’s players and coaching staff had started to wonder what it was going to take to break through for that second win.  

In round four against East, they found out what it took. Increased running and short ball movement, better team work and a more balanced team structure allowed West to finally click into gear. They outplayed East in the first half, and piled on ever increasing pressure in the second. In the end they recorded an emphatic 6.9.45 to 4.2.26 triumph over their crosstown rivals, ensuring East stayed stranded on five wins heading into the final round.  

Round 5 at Ekeberg is the culmination of a great Kenguru Cup season, and it promises a cracking contest to decide whether East or Ås will take home the Kenguru Cup for 2013. The final round is on Thursday 5th September.  

AFL Norway is also encouraging support of their new website. Please click on the link and have a look at Australsk Fotbol Norsk at: http://www.australskfotball.no/  ...

Time for some more northern "Majak"?

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In an incredible performance for an AFL junior footballer, local Cairns product, Kanjia Kamara, has won the Under 14 Best and Fairest award. Now, this kind of thing happens all the time, so what would make this particular award so different?

Firstly, this young man is another success story of a kid from Sudan playing our national game and experiencing success. But secondly, and far more tellingly, Kanjia has won this award – the best and fairest in the whole Under 14 competition – in just his very first season playing Australian Rules football.

Are we seeing a new Sudanese superstar in the making who could go all the way and equal, if not better, the deeds of North Melbourne’s Sudanese player, Majak Daw? In a situation that is likely being played out with other teams and leagues across the nation, kids of African heritage are taking to the game in greater numbers and, as proved by Kanjia, experiencing success. Figuratively speaking, Majak has kicked the door down and the young kids are now walking through that doorway.

Kanjia plays for local Cairns junior club, the Cairns Saints. In our recent article The "Majak" of Far North Queensland we wrote of the success of three other African kids and their Australian Rules football journey. At that stage, Garang Asheen (from Sudan) and Tom Daniels (of Ugandan and Sudanese parentage) were playing with local club, Pyramid Power, whilst Modasir Bahar (also from Sudan) was with Cairns Hawks. At the time of the story, Kanjia was not really on the radar outside of his own club, the season only being a few rounds old. Over the course of the next few months that situation changed dramatically.

At the vote count, held last Monday for the AFL Cairns Juniors, Kanjia polled a total of 33 votes to run away from the field, which included many other highly talented players. To put that figure in perspective, it is the equivalent of 11 best on ground votes (based on a 3, 2, 1 voting system) across 16 rounds. That is some impressive feat for a kid from Africa playing in his first ever Australian Rules football season.

On Sunday, Kanjia and his Cairns Saints team mates get the chance to share in some team glory when their team plays in the Under 14 Grand Final. This is a team sport, and Kanjia will get an opportunity to revel in team glory – the ultimate goal.

But I feel sure that his team are mighty happy to boast such a talented player in their ranks in the most important game of the year.

And it wouldn’t be a silly thing to suggest that any local talent scouts who are in town for the match report back to their teams down south and suggest "…we might have a little more ‘Majak’ to show you".

We will continue to watch the development of Kanjia, and the other African boys, over the coming seasons, and wish them all the best.

Footnote: Last weekend, Cairns Saints were defeated in their Grand Final. A premiership has eluded Kanjia, but with his talent developing along with his team he will see another chance. Garang Asheen was certainly luckier with his Pyramid Power team winning their Grand Final. A great reward for what was also Garang’s first season in junior Australian Rul ...

Axios Euro Cup Team Preview - Finland Icebreakers

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In the next instalment of our preview series on teams appearing at the 2013 Axios Euro Cup, we check in with the Finland Icebreakers. Assistant Coach from the national team, Mika Kupila, shared some information with us regarding the Icebreakers' preparations for the 2013 Euro Cup.

The Journey:

"Footy in Finland has been improving a lot since last year with skills improving on wide scale. We had a much larger pool of players to choose from for the trip to France, the team is a good combination of experience as well as first timers. We are definitely looking to improve our placing from last year."

"We still only have 4 clubs (Helsinki, Salo, Turku and Vaasa) but almost all teams have grown in numbers and seen a lot of new players experience the game. Turku Dockers have grown especially much and almost have enough players to for two teams. Salo Juggernauts on the other hand have been struggling somewhat with most of the team doing their mandatory military service."

"The annual, season starting FAFL Cup was played in Lappeenranta in Eastern Finland and the traditional finals event will be played in Tampere. Neither of these cities have an active footy scene yet, so the events work well in promoting the sport."

The Squad

"We have a good team this year with all players showing excellent skills. A couple of players to mention are Lasse Punttila and Tomi Keskinen, both out of Helsinki Heatseekers. Lasse is a powerhouse and has been dominating as fullback the whole season. He reads the ball really well is an important leader in our defense. Tomi again is a hard hitting on baller who attacks the ball like no one else. He's powerful, quick and has a wide background in different ball sports and will definitely be an asset for us with getting the ball."

The Goal:

"For the tournament, we definitely want to improve our last years position and finish in the top 4. We're looking forward to the tournament, it's going to be fun to catch up with everyone again."

"The 2014 International Cup is definitely another goal we have in mind. It's quite expensive to travel to Australia so we need a solid team of players to commit to taking the trip over, we're also trying to look for sponsors to help ease the financial burden."

The Squad

The Icebreakers squad was initially announced via Facebook, but has since changed slightly due to changing availabilities. The players now selected to head to Bordeaux are:

Antti Nurmikoski (Vaasa)
Jens Löfbacka (Vaasa)
Kaj Karlsson (Södermalm, Sweden)
Mika Kupila (Helsinki)
Fredrik Romar (Dublin Swans, Ireland)
Jukka Reiman (Salo)
Tomi Virtanen (Turku)
Juuso Timosaari (Turku)
Ville Koivunen (Salo)
Lasse Punttila (Helsinki)
Tomi Keskinen (Helsinki)
Ville Suominen (Turku)
Tom Browne (Helsinki)
Ville Saarinen (Turku)
Tero Salomäki (Turku)
Ilkka Poti (Vaasa)

Coach: David King
Assistant Coach: Mika Kupila

The Final Word:

The Icebreakers showed promise as an up-and-coming European football nation a few years back, fielding sides in the full-field 2008 International Cup and 2010 European Championships. However, they've been a little quieter on the international scene since then, and have been consolidating their domestic league over the past few seasons. By all reports, the Icebreakers have been improving, with the local Finnish guys holding their own against their league's Aussie expats in a recent practice match. Looking forward to seeing the side take the next step. ...

Setanta shown the door

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Setanta O'hAilpin was today delisted by the GWS Giants. He played seven games for the Giants for a career total of 88 games after joining the club from Carlton for the 2012 season. He has kicked 82 career goals.

Injury robbed O'hAilpin of a chance to cement himself as a key forward at the Giants after his career at Carlton ended in 2011 after being used by the Blues in numerous positions with varying success.

We will be interested to see where O'hAilpin goes from here, he might be a great IC14 ambassador given his Irish and Fijian (winners of IC11 Division 1 and 2 respectively) heritage. The Irish Warriors might rather see him lining up on the field for them thoug ...

Hanley nominated in MVP award

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 With the home and away season behind us, all sorts of AFL awards are being announced.  One award growing in stature in recent years is the 2013 Be the Influence AFL Players’ MVP Awards. 

The nominations have been finalised and Irishman Pearce Hanley has been included in the top 54 (see below).  Hanley was one of the omissions from this week’s announcement of the 40 players eligible to be selected in the final 22 of the 2013 Four'N Twenty AFL All Australian Team. 

The winner of the AFL industry’s foremost peer-determined award, the Leigh Matthews Trophy proudly presented by Be the Influence, will be announced on Tuesday September 10 at Peninsula, Docklands in Melbourne.

 MEDIA RELEASE: 2013 Be the Influence AFL Players' MVP nominees

This year’s list of nominees contains superstars at the top of their game including Gary Ablett Jnr who will be vying for the title for a record fifth time, as well as Scott Pendlebury, Jarryd Roughead, Joel Selwood and Patrick Dangerfield, along with a host of newcomers including Jake Carlisle and Daniel Hannebery.

The AFL Players’ MVP remains the only football award decided by those who know the game best – the players.

Now in its 31st year, the award is more important than ever, according to AFL Players’ CEO Matt Finnis.

“Amongst all of the various awards and accolades provided to players at this time of year; it’s really important the players themselves have a voice.”

“In any industry, you want the respect of your peers. AFL footballers are no different, and the Leigh Matthews Trophy is a great way players can recognise the efforts of those outside their own club.”

AFL Players’ Association President Luke Ball said that while the award continues to grow in stature publicly, it has always been considered one of the highest honours in the game amongst the playing group because it reflects the respect a player has amongst his peers.

“As a player you strive for the respect of your peers, and unlike other awards the MVP is determined by the men who take to the field alongside you each week,” said Ball.

“Players get to see what occurs behind the scenes. From long nights on the track, to game day and the strategic work put into stopping an opposition player, so we are very well positioned to judge the Most Valuable Player in the league.

“The names that feature on the Leigh Matthews’ Trophy represent the very elite of the past 30 years, so to have your name etched alongside players you have grown up idolising would be an incredible honour for any player.”


Other awards presented on the night include:

·         The Robert Rose Most Courageous Award, presented by Fire Ready Victoria

·         Best First Year Player, presented by Be the Influence

·         Best Captain, presented by L’Oreal Men Expert

·         Education and Training Excellence Award, presented by La Trobe Sport

·         Grant Hattam Trophy for Excellence in Sports Journalism, presented by Kelly Hazell Quill Lawyers

 

THE VOTING PROCESS:

The MVP voting is a two stage process, beginning with each player voting for the three teammates he considers to have been the most valuable this season.  Each club’ votes are then tallied to form a nomination list comprising 54 players across the 18 teams.

Then, in the second round of voting, all AFL players vote for their MVP on a 3, 2, 1 basis from amongst the nominees from all 17 other clubs. The votes are tallied, and the player with the highest score wins the honour of MVP.

The 2013 Be The Influence AFL Players’ MVP Award Winners will be announced on Tuesday 10 September at Peninsula, Shed 14 Central Pier, Docklands and will be broadcast exclusively on Fox Footy Channel at 9.30pm.

Leigh Matthews Trophy nominees, proudly presented by Be the Influence

Adelaide – DANGERFIELD Patrick
Adelaide – DOUGLAS Richard
Adelaide – SLOANE Rory
Brisbane - HANLEY Pearce
Brisbane - LEUENBERGER Matthew
Brisbane – REDDEN Jack
Carlton – HENDERSON Lachie
Carlton – JUDD Chris
Carlton – SIMPSON Kade
Collingwood – PENDLEBURY Scott
Collingwood – SIDEBOTTOM Steele
Collingwood – SWAN Dane
Essendon – CARLISLE Jack
Essendon – HEPPELL Dyson
Essendon – WATSON Jobe
Fremantle – CROWLEY Ryan
Fremantle - FYFE Nathan
Fremantle – JOHNSON Michael
Geelong – ENRIGHT Corey
Geelong – SELWOOD Joel
Geelong – TAYLOR Harry
Gold Coast – ABLETT JNR Gary
Gold Coast – O’MEARA Jaeger
Gold Coast – THOMPSON Rory
Greater Western Sydney – CAMERON Jeremy
Greater Western Sydney – GILES Jonathan
Greater Western Sydney – SCULLY Tom
Hawthorn – GIBSON Josh
Hawthorn – MITCHELL Sam
Hawthorn – ROUGHEAD Jarryd
Melbourne – FRAWLEY James
Melbourne – GARLAND Collin
Melbourne – JONES Nathan
North Melbourne – SWALLOW Andrew
North Melbourne – THOMAS Lindsay
North Melbourne – THOMPSON Scott
Port Adelaide – BOAK Travis
Port Adelaide – WESTHOFF Justin
Port Adelaide – WINGARD Chad
Richmond – COTCHIN Trent
Richmond – DELEDIO Brett
Richmond – JACKSON Daniel
St Kilda – MONTAGNA Leigh
St Kilda – RIEWOLDT Nick
St Kilda – STEVEN Jack
Sydney – HANNEBERY Daniel
Sydney – JACK Kieren
Sydney – McVEIGH Jarrad
West Coast – GLASS Darren
West Coast – KENNEDY Josh
West Coast – MACKENZIE Eric
Western Bulldogs – GRIFFEN Ryan
Western Bulldogs – LIBERATORE Tom
Western Bulldogs – MINSON Will

The Robert Rose Most Courageous Award nominees, presented by Fire Ready Victoria

Adelaide – SLOANE Rory
Brisbane - PATFULL Joel 
Carlton – SIMPSON Kade
Collingwood - BALL Luke
Essendon – BAGULEY Mark
Fremantle – DE BOER Matt
Geelong – SELWOOD Joel
Gold Coast – SWALLOW David
Greater Western Sydney – WARD Callan
Hawthorn – STRATTON Ben
Melbourne – GARLAND Collin
North Melbourne – ZIEBELL Jack
Port Adelaide – SCHULZ Jay
Richmond – MORRIS Steven
St Kilda – GEARY Jarryn
Sydney – HANNEBERY Daniel
West Coast – GLASS Darren
Western Bulldogs – CROSS Daniel

Best First Year Player Nominees, presented by Be the Influence.

Adelaide – CROUCH Brad
Brisbane - MAYES Sam
Carlton – MENZEL Troy
Collingwood - DWYER Sam
Essendon - KOMMER Nick
Fremantle – HANNATH Jack
Geelong – THURLOW Jackson
Gold Coast – O’MEARA Jaeger
Greater Western Sydney – WHITFIELD Lachie
Hawthorn – ANDERSON Jed
Melbourne – JONES Matt
North Melbourne – GARNER Taylor
Port Adelaide – WINES Oliver
Richmond - VLASTUIN Nick
St Kilda – WRIGHT Nathan
Sydney - RAMPE Dane
West Coast – CARTER Adam
Western Bulldogs – GOODES Brett

Best Captain nominees, presented by L’Oreal Men Expert

Adelaide – VAN BERLO Nathan
Brisbane – ADCOCK Jed
Brisbane – BROWN Jonathon
Carlton – MURPHY Mark
Collingwood - MAXWELL Nick
Essendon - WATSON Jobe
Fremantle – PAVLICH Matthew
Geelong – SELWOOD Joel
Gold Coast – ABLETT JNR Gary
Greater Western Sydney – WARD Callan
Greater Western Sydney – DAVIS Phil
Hawthorn – HODGE Luke
Melbourne – TRENGOVE Jack
Melbourne – GRIMES Jack
North Melbourne – SWALLOW Andrew
Port Adelaide – BOAK Travis
Richmond - COTCHIN Trent
St Kilda –  RIEWOLDT Nick
Sydney – JACK Kieren
Sydney – MCVEIGH Jarrad
West Coast – GLASS Darren
Western Bulldogs – BOYD Matthew

The All Australian Squad members eligible for selection in the final 22 named are in order of club representation is as follows:

Patrick Dangerfield, Adelaide Crows. All Australian 2012. 20 games in 2013. 302 kicks, 84 marks, 164 handballs, averaging 14.8 kicks, 5.3 marks, 8.0 handballs. 31 Goals, 18 Behinds. 111 Clearances, 102 Inside 50m (Eighth in the AFL), 31 Rebound 50m. 64 Tackles.

 

Richard Douglas, Adelaide Crows. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 326 kicks, 116 marks, 175 handballs, averaging 14.8 kicks, 4.9 marks, 6.7 handballs. 20 Goals, 17 Behinds. 76 Clearances, 117 Inside 50m (Third in the AFL), 42 Rebound 50m. 86 Tackles.

 

Travis Cloke, Collingwood. All Australian 2011. 21 games in 2013. 248 kicks, 183 marks (Second in the AFL), 64 handballs, averaging 11.8 kicks, 8.7 marks, 3.0 handballs. 66 Goals (Second in the AFL), 50 Behinds. Zero Clearances, 68 Inside 50m, Zero Rebound 50m. 27 Tackles.

 

Scott Pendlebury, Collingwood. All Australian 2010, 2011, 2012. 22 games in 2013. 312 kicks, 85 marks, 352 handballs (Second in the AFL), averaging 14.2 kicks, 3.9 marks, 16.0 handballs. 18 Goals, Nine Behinds. 122 Clearances (Seventh in the AFL), 89 Inside 50m, 40 Rebound 50m. 114 Tackles.

 

Dane Swan, Collingwood. All Australian 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. 22 games in 2013. 421 kicks (First in the AFL), 120 marks, 274 handballs, averaging 19.1 kicks, 5.5 marks, 12.5 handballs. First in the AFL in total disposals. 18 Goals, 18 Behinds. 111 Clearances, 116 Inside 50m (Fourth in the AFL), 47 Rebound 50m. 76 Tackles.

 

Jobe Watson, Essendon. All Australian 2012. 19 games in 2013. 259 kicks, 74 marks, 264 handballs, averaging 13.6 kicks, 3.9 marks, 13.9 handballs. 16 Goals, 18 Behinds. 97 Clearances, 67 Inside 50m, 27 Rebound 50m. 61 Tackles.

 

Nathan Fyfe, Fremantle. Never previously selected. 19 games in 2013. 300 kicks, 87 marks, 188 handballs, averaging 15.8 kicks, 4.6 marks, 9.9 handballs. 16 Goals, 11 Behinds. 110 Clearances, 85 Inside 50m, 23 Rebound 50m. 60 Tackles.

 

Michael Johnson, Fremantle. Never previously selected. 21 games in 2013. 291 kicks, 143 marks (Ninth in the AFL), 116 handballs, averaging 13.9 kicks, 6.8 marks, 5.5 handballs. Five Goals, Two Behinds. Two Clearances, 32 Inside 50m, 72 Rebound 50m. 41 Tackles.

 

Chris Mayne, Fremantle. Never Previously Selected. 21 games in 2013. 175 kicks, 127 marks, 170 handballs, averaging 8.3 kicks, 6.0 marks, 8.1 handballs. 35 Goals, Nine Behinds. 13 Clearances, 40 Inside 50m, Four Rebound 50m. 90 Tackles.

 

David Mundy, Fremantle. Never Previously Selected. 19 games in 2013. 272 kicks, 80 marks, 185 handballs, averaging 14.3 kicks, 4.2 marks, 9.7 handballs. Seven Goals, Seven Behinds. 114 Clearances, 81 Inside 50m, 36 Rebound 50m. 101 Tackles.

 

Michael Walters, Fremantle. Never Previously Selected. 18 games in 2013. 203 kicks, 96 marks, 81 handballs, averaging 11.3 kicks, 5.3 marks, 4.5 handballs. 40 Goals, 20 Behinds. 17 Clearances, 57 Inside 50m, 11 Rebound 50m. 47 Tackles.

 

Corey Enright, Geelong Cats. All Australian 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. 21 games in 2013. 314 kicks, 151 marks (Fifth in the AFL), 164 handballs, averaging 15.0 kicks, 7.2 marks, 7.8 handballs. One Goal, Four Behinds. 19 Clearances, 62 Inside 50m, 77 Rebound 50m. 39 Tackles.

 

Andrew Mackie, Geelong Cats. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 314 kicks, 141 marks, 210 handballs, averaging 14.3 kicks, 6.4 marks, 6.8 handballs. Five Goals, Five Behinds. 10 Clearances, 79 Inside 50m, 59 Rebound 50m. 37 Tackles.

 

Steve Motlop, Geelong Cats. Never previously selected. 21 games in 2013. 240 kicks, 72 marks, 129 handballs, averaging 11.4 kicks, 3.4 marks, 6.1 handballs. 39 Goals, 22 Behinds. 12 Clearances, 86 Inside 50m, 26 Rebound 50m. 38 Tackles.

 

Joel Selwood, Geelong Cats. All Australian 2009, 2010. 22 games in 2013. 278 kicks, 91 marks, 266 handballs, averaging 12.6 kicks, 4.1 marks, 12.1 handballs. 28 Goals, 16 Behinds. 112 Clearances, 93 Inside 50m, 24 Rebound 50m. 127 Tackles (Ninth in the AFL).

 

Harry Taylor, Geelong Cats. All Australian 2010. 21 games in 2013. 246 kicks, 158 marks (Third in the AFL), 116 handballs, averaging 11.7 kicks, 7.5 marks, 5.5 handballs. 14 Goals, Nine Behinds. Six Clearances, 40 Inside 50m, 87 Rebound 50m. 32 Tackles.

 

Gary Ablett, Gold Coast Suns. All Australian 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 (vice-captain), 2011 (captain), 2012. 21 games in 2013. 343 kicks (Ninth in the AFL), 73 marks, 312 handballs (Fourth in the AFL), averaging 16.3 kicks, 3.5 marks, 14.9 handballs. Third in the AFL in total disposals. 28 Goals, 23 Behinds. 124 Clearances (Sixth in the AFL), 113 Inside 50m (Sixth in the AFL), 39 Rebound 50m. 96 Tackles.

 

Jeremy Cameron, GWS Giants. Never previously selected. 21 games in 2013. 170 kicks, 106 marks, 54 handballs, averaging 8.1 kicks, 5.0 marks, 2.6 handballs. 62 Goals (Third in the AFL), 27 Behinds. One Clearances, 62 Inside 50m, Four Rebound 50m. 27 Tackles.

 

Lance Franklin, Hawthorn. All Australian 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012. 19 games in 2013. 195 kicks, 76 marks, 100 handballs, averaging 10.3 kicks, 4.0 marks, 5.36 handballs. 55 Goals (Fifth in the AFL), 36 Behinds. 13 Clearances, 59 Inside 50m, Four Rebound 50m. 46 Tackles.

 

Josh Gibson, Hawthorn. Never previously selected. 21 games in 2013. 164 kicks, 88 marks, 209 handballs, averaging 7.8 kicks, 4.2 marks, 10.0 handballs. Zero Goals, Zero Behinds. Five Clearances, 17 Inside 50m, 67 Rebound 50m. 39 Tackles.

 

Luke Hodge, Hawthorn. All Australian 2005, 2008, 2010 (captain). 20 games in 2013. 303 kicks, 99 marks, 138 handballs, averaging 15.1 kicks, 4.9 marks, 6.9 handballs. 11 Goals, 10 Behinds. 54 Clearances, 83 Inside 50m, 47 Rebound 50m. 74 Tackles.

 

Sam Mitchell, Hawthorn. All Australian 2011. 21 games in 2013. 326 kicks, 75 marks, 268 handballs, averaging 15.5 kicks, 3.6 marks, 12.8 handballs. Seventh in the AFL in Total Disposals. Five Goals, Five Behinds. 89 Clearances, 71 Inside 50m, 62 Rebound 50m. 67 Tackles.

 

Jarryd Roughead, Hawthorn. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 231 kicks, 102 marks, 127 handballs, averaging 10.5 kicks, 4.6 marks, 5.8 handballs. 53 Hit Outs, averaging 2.4 per game. 68 Goals (First in the AFL), 28 Behinds. 53 Clearances, 49 Inside 50m, Six Rebound 50m. 55 Tackles.

 

Todd Goldstein, North Melbourne. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 113 kicks, 66 marks, 150 handballs, averaging 5.1 kicks, 3.0 marks, 6.8 handballs. 822 hit outs (Second in the AFL), averaging 37.4 hit outs. 13 Goals, Four Behinds. 55 Clearances, 32 Inside 50m, 14 Rebound 50m. 65 Tackles.

 

Lindsay Thomas, North Melbourne. Never previously selected. 20 games in 2013. 168 kicks, 53 marks, 43 handballs, averaging 8.4 kicks, 2.6 marks, 2.6 handballs. 53 Goals (Seventh in the AFL), 23 Behinds. 12 Clearances, 50 Inside 50m, Three Rebound 50m. 53 Tackles.

 

Scott Thompson, North Melbourne. Never previously selected. 19 games in 2013. 228 kicks, 124 marks, 144 handballs, averaging 12.0 kicks, 6.5 marks, 7.6 handballs. Two Goals, Zero Behinds. Six Clearances, 35 Inside 50m, 80 Rebound 50m. 42 Tackles.

 

Daniel Wells, North Melbourne. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 291 kicks, 80 marks, 177 handballs, averaging 13.2 kicks, 3.6 marks, 8.0 handballs. 25 Goals, 10 Behinds. 98 Clearances, 101 Inside 50m (Ninth in the AFL), 29 Rebound 50m. 52 Tackles.

 

Travis Boak, Port Adelaide. Never previously selected. 21 games in 2013. 297 kicks, 91 marks, 244 handballs, averaging 14.1 kicks, 4.3 marks, 11.6 handballs. 18 Goals, 11 Behinds. 117 Clearances, 116 Inside 50m (Fourth in the AFL), 26 Rebound 50m. 88 Tackles.

 

Chad Wingard, Port Adelaide. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 288 kicks, 95 marks, 183 handballs, averaging 13.1 kicks, 4.3 marks, 8.3 handballs. 40 Goals, 19 Behinds. 55 Clearances, 101 Inside 50m (Ninth in the AFL), 27 Rebound 50m. 45 Tackles.

 

Nick Riewoldt, St Kilda. All Australian 2004, 2006, 2008, 2009 (Captain). 21 games in 2013. 281 kicks, 202 marks (First in the AFL), 109 handballs, averaging 13.4 kicks, 9.6 marks, 5.2 handballs. 50 Goals (Eighth in the AFL), 36 Behinds. Four Clearances, 71 Inside 50m, 10 Rebound 50m. 41 Tackles.

 

Jack Steven, St Kilda. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 312 kicks, 83marks, 299 handballs (Tenth in the AFL), averaging 14.2 kicks, 3.8 marks, 12.7 handballs. Eighth in the AFL in total disposals. 16 Goals, Eight Behinds. 118 Clearances (Tenth in the AFL), 85 Inside 50m, 34 Rebound 50m. 87 Tackles.

 

Dan Hannebery, Sydney Swans. Never previously selected. 21 games in 2013. 250 kicks, 70 marks, 297 handballs (Sixth in the AFL), averaging 11.9 kicks, 3.3 marks, 14.1 handballs. 16 Goals, 13 Behinds. 70 Clearances, 77 Inside 50m, 27 Rebound 50m. 59 Tackles.

 

Kieren Jack, Sydney Swans. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 305 kicks, 45 marks, 253 handballs, averaging 13.9 kicks, 2.0 marks, 11.5 handballs. 22 Goals, 14 Behinds. 111 Clearances, 126 Inside 50m (First in the AFL), 27 Rebound 50m. 145 Tackles (Third in the AFL).

 

Josh Kennedy, Sydney Swans. All Australian 2012. 22 games in 2013. 230 kicks, 38 marks, 371 handballs (First in the AFL), averaging 10.5 kicks, 1.7 marks, 16.9 handballs. Fifth in the AFL in Total Disposals. 13 Goals, 14 Behinds. 167 Clearances (Second in the AFL), 71 Inside 50m, 23 Rebound 50m. 101 Tackles.

 

Jarrad McVeigh, Sydney Swans. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 353 kicks (Seventh in the AFL), 86 marks, 245 handballs, averaging 16.0 kicks, 3.9 marks, 11.1 handballs. Sixth in the AFL in total disposals. 13 Goals, Seven Behinds. 61 Clearances, 79 Inside 50m, 80 Rebound 50m. 75 Tackles.

 

Nick Malceski, Sydney Swans. Never previously selected. 22 games in 2013. 392 kicks (Third in the AFL), 92 marks, 109 handballs, averaging 17.8 kicks, 4.2 marks, 5.0 handballs. Five Goals, Four Behinds. 16 Clearances, 79 Inside 50m, 177 Rebound 50m (First in the AFL). 43 Tackles.

 

Josh Kennedy, West Coast. Never previously selected. 21 games in 2013. 210 kicks, 143 marks (Ninth in the AFL), 63 handballs, averaging 10.0 kicks, 6.8 marks, 3.0 handballs. 60 Goals (Fourth in the AFL), 23 Behinds. One Clearances, 60 Inside 50m, Two Rebound 50m. 69 Tackles.

 

Eric Mackenzie, West Coast. Never previously selected. 20 games in 2013. 146 kicks, 85 marks, 89 handballs, averaging 7.3  kicks, 4.2 marks, 4.4 handballs. Three Goals, One Behind. Four Clearances, 22 Inside 50m, 55 Rebound 50m. 52 Tackles.

 

Ryan Griffen, Western Bulldogs. Never previously selected. 20 games in 2013. 304 kicks, 63 marks, 275 handballs, averaging 15.2 kicks, 3.2 marks, 13.8 handballs. Tenth in the AFL in total disposals. 14 Goals, 10 Behinds. 121 Clearances (Eighth in the AFL), 121 Inside 50m (Second in the AFL), 28 Rebound 50m. 98 Tackles.

 

 

...

2013 Grand Final Parties around the world (call for submissions)

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Every year since 2005 World Footy News has displayed an extensive list of Grand Final Parties around the world. And with finals starting this week we once again call for clubs around the world to send details of your party so that fans of the game in your city can watch the big game with you.

You can either post details as a comment below (you must register before you are able to post a comment) or email troy@worldfootynews.com - all these details will be collated as per previous years.

 

Please note: The information is entered here in good faith. worldfootynews.com is not responsible for any incorrect information posted to this story. Wherever possible attempt to check ahead to make sure the party you are planning on attending is still going ahead and has room for you. There have been cases of sell outs and late changes e.g. when a venue could not secure a telecast.

  ...

AFL 2013 Finals Week 1 - International Broadcast Schedule

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The international broadcast schedule for the AFL 2013 Finals Week 1 can be seen below. All times are correct at the time of publishing and WFN takes no responsibility for changes to the schedule.  Note the Saturday night match will be delayed on the Australia Network due to the coverage of the Australian Federal Election.
 

...

TV- TERRITORY

(NETWORK)

Hawthorn vs SydneyGeelong Vs FremantleCollingwood vs Pt AdelaideRichmond vs CarltonHighlights
Asia (Australia Network)6/9 @ 1730 HKT (LIVE)7/9 @ 1200 HKT (LIVE)7/9 @ 2100 HKT (Delay)8/9 @ 1300 HKT (LIVE)10/9 @ 2230 HKT
Pacific (Australia Network)6/9 @ 2130 FJT (LIVE)7/9 @ 1600 FJT (LIVE)7/9 @ 0100 FJT (Delay)8/9 @ 1700 FJT (LIVE)10/9 @ 2200 FJT
India (Australia Network)6/9 @ 1500 IST (LIVE)7/9 @ 0930 IST (LIVE)7/9 @ 1830 IST (Delay)7/9 @ 1030 IST (LIVE)10/9 @ 1800 IST
UK & Ireland (BT Sport)6/9 @ 1030 BST (LIVE)7/9 @ 0500 BST (LIVE)7/9 @ 1030 BST (LIVE)8/9 @ 0600 BST (LIVE)10/9 @ 1500 BST
Caribbean (ESPN)6/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)-7/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)-12/9 @ 1800 USET
Europe (Eurosport 2)--7/9 @ 1130 CET (LIVE)  10/9 @ 2300 CET
UK & Ireland (Eurosport 2)--9/9 @ 2100 BST (LIVE)-10/9 @ 2315 CET
USA (Fox Soccer/Fox Sports2)6/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)7/9 @ 0000 USET (LIVE)7/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)8/9 @ 0100 USET (LIVE)9/9 @ 1800 USET
Middle East (Orbit)6/9 @ 1230 KSA (LIVE)7/9 @ 0700 KSA (LIVE)7/9 @ 1230 KSA (LIVE)8/9 @ 0800 KSA (LIVE)9/9 @ 2100 KSA
Worldwide (excl Aus) (OTLSM)-----
New Zealand (SKY SPORTS)10/9 @ 0030 NZT (Delay)---10/9 @ 1730 NZT
New Zealand (Sommet Sports)6/9 @ 2150 NZT (LIVE)7/9 @1620 NZT (LIVE)7/9 @ 2145 NZT (LIVE)7/9 @ 1720 NZT (LIVE)10/9 @ 2005 NZT 
Africa (Super Sport)6/9 @ 1130 CAT (LIVE)7/9 @ 0600 CAT (LIVE)7/9 @ 1130 CAT (LIVE)8/9 @ 0700 CAT (LIVE)10/9 @ 2030 CAT
Canada (TSN2)8/9 @ 0000 USET (Delay)7/9 @ 0000 USET (LIVE)7/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)-TSN.ca
Latin America (VIVA SPORTS)-----
ONLINE     
Worldwide (excl. Australia)0950 GMT0420 GMT0945 GMT0520 GMT -

National Female Kickstart Championships

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The following press release from the AFL details the National Female Indigenous Kickstart Championships in Melbourne this week. This event is a follow up to the indigenous male championships played earlier this year. Our thanks to the AFL and the AFLNT (Northern Territory) for this information.

The AFL wishes to advise that the inaugural National Female Indigenous Kickstart Championships will be held in Melbourne at Victoria Park, from today, Monday, September 9.

Supported by the Coles AFL Indigenous Program and The Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA), the five-day Championships will see seven teams represented at Under 18 level, including all States and Territories.

“The National Female Kickstart Championships is the first targeted female Indigenous strategy pursued to support the key objective of driving participation and talent outcomes.
 
“It will also enable the AFL to drive other social outcomes such as health, education, leadership and employment objectives with Indigenous females.
 
“We would like to thank FaHCSIA for its significant contribution to the National Female Kickstart Championships and Coles for its tremendous support and commitment to the Coles AFL Indigenous program.”
 
The Championships will form the basis for selection to compete in the National Female Youth Championships as part of the AFL Indigenous Female Youth team. The AFL’s Chris Johnson and Xavier Clarke will head the selection process.

Match schedule

Monday September 9

10:30am: QLD v NSW/ACT    11:30am: NT v SA       12:30pm: WA v TAS  

1:30pm: VIC v QLD    2:30pm: SA v NSW/ACT         3:30pm: TAS v NT

4:30pm: VIC v WA 

Tuesday September 10

10:00am: SA v Tas      11:00am: VIC v NT     12:00pm: QLD v WA 

1:00pm: TAS v NSW/ACT     2:00pm: SA v VIC   3:00pm: NT v QLD  

4:00pm: WA v NSW/ACT

Thursday September 12

10:00am: SA v WA     11:00am: QLD v TAS     12:00pm: VIC v NSW/ACT

1:00pm: NT v WA       2:00pm: SA v QLD         3:00pm: VIC v TAS  

4:00pm: NT v NSW/ACT

Friday September 13

9:30am: Female Kickstart Grand Final

11:30-12:30pm: Presentation

 

  ...

Ås Battlers crowned Norwegian champions for 2013

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Our thanks to David Stone, President of AFL Norway, for allowing us to reproduce this article about the finale of the Kenguru Cup in Norway. We have worked closely with the crew in Oslo and beyond throughout 2013, watching the game grow in terms of talent and numbers. With the possibility of a team from Bergen appearing on the Norwegian landscape at some point in the future, credit is due to all involved with Australian Rules football development in Norway.  

The UMBI Ås Battlers are Norway’s champions of Australian football for 2013 after overcoming Oslo East in the final match of the Kenguru Cup season. With both teams locked on five wins after being overpowered by the fast-finishing Oslo West, Ås stayed strong in a low scoring battle against East to win their first ever Kenguru Cup.

The stage for the final encounter was set up by West Oslo, who fielded a very strong team and finally seemed to have their ship in order. In the first game, Ås showed early fight and could have counted themselves unlucky to be down by three goals at half time.

Both teams had had similar amounts of the ball, but West’s class in front of goal was telling. Rene Damborg Jensen, Matt Stirling and newcomer Håkon Molvig showed an intense appetite for the ball, backed up by a willing band of West runners.

 

West, perhaps stung by the ignominy of its six game losing streak, played some of the best football seen in Norway this year, put the game beyond doubt early in the second half as the rain began to mist over Ekeberg. Amund Lundesgaard, Anders Thømt and Canadian Stephen Bell fought hard for the Battlers, who lost crucial hardman John Debenham to injury in the first half. 
 
East, having watched game one and noticed West’s tactics, started with belief. Its talented core group was full of running, and its Norwegian brigade such as Andreas Kristoffer Berge, Marius Wold and Hardy Hardsome brought their ever-improving games to Ekeberg.
 
The rainy conditions however made skilfull football almost impossible. The ball became slipperier and heavier, and while West had the ascendancy on the scoreboard, East stayed within striking distance.
 
The second half was an even wetter and slipperier affair than the first, and apart from a few sparks of brilliance such as Brage Blomdal’s tackle and goal from a tight angle, it was a game played in the centre area for much of the half. Pearce, Roxby – perhaps playing his final game for East – and their East compatriots repelled West as best they could, but it wasn’t enough.
 
West ran the game out with purpose, and finished an up and down season with its third straight win, much to the delight of coach David Stone and his players. 
 
At five games each, with AFL Europe in attendance and the victory barbeque officially lit, the final game of the year, between East and Ås would decide the entire season. Whoever emerged triumphant would take the Kenguru Cup home.
 
Ås had trained long and hard to go one step further than last year, where they had fallen agonisingly short in the final round.   The intensity from both teams was immense early on, but it was Ås, fresh off a rest, who had more running in them. Neither team was willing to give away a single possession or millimetre of territory, and at half time Ås led by the smallest of margins, 0.1.1 to 0.0.0.
 
Thankfully the rain’s disappearance and a new, dry ball lifted the skill level back up for the second half, which was balanced on a knife edge for the first few minutes. But after threatening many times only to be denied, Ås finally turned its pressure into goals. Coach Adam O’Toole and second game sensation Anders Ørnberg scored, and after a sensational solo effort by East’s Marius Wold was denied by the goal post, it was Ørnberg again who scored in a desperate scramble close to goal. To top off the drama, he injured his leg while kicking the goal, but was still able to put the ball between the big sticks.
 
With only minutes remaining, a two goal lead was always likely to be enough, and so it was. Eivind Myrvold, Samson Langfeldt, Matt Baranski and the entire Batters squad held strong, and kept East out for the required time.
 
The final siren sparked jubilation on and off the pitch, as Ås players celebrated their first ever Kenguru Cup. Coach Adam O`Toole and captain Eivind Myrvold accepted the cup from AFL Europe General Manager Ben MacCormack, who had flown from London to see the season finale.
 
In true Australian spirit, the three teams, supporters and volunteers all shared a drink and a barbeque after the game, to celebrate what had been a highly competitive season filled with encouraging development by Norwegian players, and plenty of highlights.
 
In the end, the Battlers played consistent football through the season, and managed to win the trophy with a significantly smaller Australian contingent than the two Oslo teams. Their commitment to developing Norwegian talent has been rewarded, and they were worthy winners of the cup. 
 
For West, the hypothetical standard of football they always seemed capable of finally happened, but it arrived once the season was over for them. East, strong as ever, were probably one solid half of football away from repeating as Kenguru Cup champions, but they were left searching for answers by a Battler’s outfit that was better when it really counted. 
 
Thanks for the season should go to the three coaches, Adam Pearce, Adam O’Toole and David Stone. Matt Baranski, Ben Marks and Matt Stirling were valuable contributors as umpires, and Nathan Roxby and many others contributed to training and social activities during the Kenguru Cup season.
 
The biggest thanks of all must go to Anette Smith, Oslo’s professional, dedicated and good humoured trainer/nurse/medic/coach/motivator. Her contribution to the Kenguru Cup and to Australian football in Norway is valuable beyond description, and is hugely appreciated. 
 
With the domestic season finished for 2013, the focus shifts to the AFL 9s in Portugal and the big Euro Cup event in Bordeaux. It’s been a fantastic season, with one or two more highlights left to come! ...

Bordeaux Axios Euro Cup 2013 Promo

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The French city of Bordeaux is currently gearing up to host this year's Axios Euro Cup 2013. As part of the build up, this promotional video has been released, featuring scenes from the host city and an unusual, but highly welcome, amount of football activity on the streets.

New Look for AFL Middle East

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As the footy seasons across Australia, Asia, the Americas and Europe begin to wind down, another competition is just starting to kick into top gear. The AFL Middle East 2013/14 competition is about the get under way next month, and there is something fresh and new about the whole competition.

Maybe it is just the effect of their brand new website at afl-me.com, revamped and looking a treat. Already the teams across the region are locking into a pre-season program of Grand Final breakfast functions (the Australian AFL), or the glamour of Melbourne Cup celebrations. But it is on the playing fields of the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Qatar where the action is starting to happen.

Teams have already been in their pre-season training mode since July. The Dubai Dragons preparing to go for their own three-peat and win a third flag in a row. The Doha Kangaroos are planning and training to go one step better this season and grab a flag. The Dubai Dingoes, winners of last year’s pre-season AFL 9’s tournament, are wanting to get away to another good start and this time keep it going to the last match of the year. The Abu Dhabi Falcons and Muscat Magpies are also keen to put last season behind them and push for glory in this new season.

First up for all teams is the pre-season cup to be played by all teams in Dubai on October 4th. Once again this event will be the chance for teams to shake off the cob-webs and prepare for the season proper.

The new season gets under way with a clash between reigning premiers the Dubai Dragons and the Muscat Magpies in Dubai on October 25th. This will be followed by clashes on November 8th between the Dubai Dingoes and Doha Kangaroos as well as the Abu Dhabi Falcons taking on the Dragons. Follow this link for full draw details, including the Grand Final to be played in Dubai on March 21st.

Sadly, the Bahrain Blues are no longer part of the competition, and are unlikely to be in the foreseeable future, meaning a five team draw for this season and currently into the future. But that did not diminish the excitement or talent on display last year and will not again this season.

For those interested, take a look at their new website which features, or will feature, full details of draw and results as the season develops as well as news updates, sponsorship and event details and even Auskick details across the Middle East. You can also follow the progress of the clubs through their own websites and Facebook pages via the contacts tab.

The new season promises to be exciting, and as with all new seasons they bring hope, redemption, second chances and new opportunities. We will bring further updates on the league’s progress over the coming months.

For those interested in the review of the 2012/13 season, read our previous story AFL Middle East 2012-13 Season Review ...

AFL 2013 Finals Week 2 - International Broadcast Schedule

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The international broadcast schedule for the AFL 2013 Finals Week 2 can be seen below. All times are correct at the time of publishing and WFN takes no responsibility for changes to the schedule. Hawthorn and Fremantle await the winners of this weekend's matches to playoff in the preliiminary final.
 

...
TV-Territory (Network)Geelong vs Port AdelSyd vs CarltonHighlights
Asia (Australia Network)13/9 @ 1730 HKT (LIVE)14/9 @ 1730 HKT (LIVE)17/9 @ 2230 HKT
Pacific (Australia Network)13/9 @ 2130 FJT (LIVE)14/9 @ 2130 FJT (LIVE)17/9 @ 2200 FJT
India (Australia Network)13/9 @ 1500 IST (LIVE)14/9 @ 1500 IST (LIVE)17/9 @ 1800 IST
UK & Ireland (ESPN - BT SPORT)13/9 @ 1030 BST (LIVE)14/9 @ 1030 BST (LIVE)17/9 @ 1330 BST
Caribbean (ESPN)13/9 @ 0530 EST (LIVE)14/9 @ 0530 EST (LIVE)19/9 @ 1000 EST
Europe (Eurosport 2)13/9 @ 1145 CET (LIVE)-17/9 @ 2300 CET
UK & Ireland (Eurosport 2)16/9 @ 2300 BST (Delay)-17/9 @ 2300 BST
USA (FSP)13/9 @ 1700 USET (Delay)14/9 @ 1700 USET (Delay)16/9 @ 1800 USET
USA (Fox Sports 2)13/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)14/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)-
Middle East (Orbit Showtime)13/9 @ 1230 KSA (LIVE)13/9 @ 1230 KSA (LIVE)16/9 @ 2100 KSA
Worldwide (excl. Aust) (OTLSM)13/9 @ 0950 GMT (LIVE)14/9 @ 0945 GMT (LIVE)-
New Zealand (SKY)-17/9 @ 0000 NZT (Delay)17/9 @ 1730 NZT
New Zealand (Sommet Sports)13/9 @ 2130 NZT (LIVE)13/9 @ 2130 NZT (LIVE)17/9 @ 2000 NZT (LIVE)
Africa (Supersport)13/9 @ 1130 CAT (LIVE)14/9 @ 1130 CAT (LIVE)17/9 @ 2030 CAT
Canada (TSN2)13/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)14/9 @ 0530 USET (LIVE)TSN.ca
Latin America (Viva Sports)21/9 @ 1000 MST (Delay)22/9 @ 1000 MST (Delay)-
Worldwide (ONLINE)13/9 @ 0950 GMT (LIVE) 14/9 @ 0945 GMT (LIVE) -

Axios Euro Cup Team Preview – Austrian Avalanche

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In the next of our series of articles looking at the preparation and prospects of the various nations competing at this year’s Axios Euro Cup in Bordeaux, we look at the story of the Austrian national team.  Oliver Krajacic, skipper of the Styrian DownUnderDogs, gives us his insights.

The Journey:

“The last season has indeed been a good one for Austrian Footy overall and the Austrian National Team in particular. We managed to recruit new players into our club (the Styrian DownUnderDogs) and that led to, for the first time ever, competition in regards to making the national team. Also, for the first time, we are able to send 16 players to the European Championships thanks to some new sponsors.”

The Preparation:

“For a substantial number of these it will be the first international tournament and I'm really proud of the effort the guys have put in all year. The new guys really challenged themselves and worked exceptionally hard, with the veterans supporting their efforts and getting additional motivation from them.”

The Squad:

“I sincerely think that we have the core of a great team assembled in Austria. Of course there's always room to improve, we're far from being a Footy powerhouse still, but the foundation is in place now. The midfield can look up to our new ruckmen Erwin and Christian Schober, young brothers coming in at 2,03m and 1,97m who both show excellent potential to be great players of the game. Veteran Martin Schitteg is switching to fullback, anchoring our defence and after much injury woes is probably in the form of his career. Overall we'll have a nice mix of newcomers and experienced players on the field.”

The Goal:

We did poorly in the Euro Cup standings the last couple of years and our goal is to develop into a solid contender away from the bottom ranks. It's not going to happen overnight but, for once, all the pieces are in place.

The Austrian Avalanche is ready to roll!

The Final Word:

The past twelve months have seen a great deal of new and positive activity coming from Austria. With this positive growth it stands to reason that positive change will start to be visible on the football fields. History (and logic) says that not all teams can go “up” the ladder at the same time, but there is genuine reason to believe that the Austrian Avalanche can achieve this at the 2013 Euro Cup.

  ...

Vienna Kangaroos return - an Austrian phoenix rising?

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Last weekend saw a much awaited Australian Rules football match in Austria between the Graz based Styrian DownUnderDogs and the previously “presumed extinct” Vienna Kangaroos. For the record, the DownUnderDogs defeated the Kangaroos 73-59, but that is not the most important victory from the day.

As reported by Oliver Krajacic, captain of the Styrian DownUnderDogs, “Sunday 8th of September saw the first game between footy teams from Graz and Vienna in years. Pablo Caldarola, a veteran player of the hibernating Vienna Kangaroos, organised a team of former club colleagues and interested Aussies in Vienna and invited the Styrian DownUnderDogs to a friendly game.”

“The match was a hard-fought battle, with the Dogs starting strongly from the first bounce and establishing a lead early. The second and third quarters saw a spirited Vienna side step up physically and exploit mistakes the Dogs made to make it close after three quarters. With the game on the line, the Dogs were able to keep a cool head and put the game away with consecutive goals late in the final quarter.”

The re-emergence of Austria’s first Aussie Rules team, after effectively disbanding at the end of 2010, is a welcome shot in the arm for Austrian footy. It is almost like an exclamation mark at the end of an Austrian sentence which this year contained news of university links and new teams, heralding a new era of development.

For the team that started life as the “Wiener Dingoes” back in 2003, and was the key component of Austrian representative football throughout the early years, their demise over the past few years has possibly been seen as evidence of the game shrinking in interest.

But the weekend's game, combined with a recent tournament featuring other new clubs (see Of Mountain Goats and Mammoths), certainly points to better things with the Vienna Kangaroos possibly about to rise again from the ashes of their past.

Even the dialogue from the weekend seems positive with Oliver stating that “both teams agreed to try to work together on re-establishing a permanent club in Vienna and to continue to promote the game of footy in Austria.”

The performance of the Austrian Avalanche at the upcoming Axios Euro Cup in Bordeaux will be a handy pointer to the nation’s development, as the national team strives to improve on recent performances. But certainly a new Vienna Kangaroos would go a long way to fast tracking that developm ...

Pools announced for Axios 2013 Euro Cup

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The pools have been announced for the 9-a-side Axios 2013 Euro Cup in Bordeaux, France, with 11 nations and the European Crusaders competing in a lightning tournament on September 21st.

Teams will compete in four groups of three teams each; the Groupe De Coubertin including Finland, Croatia and the Crusaders; Groupe Léo Lagrange with Ireland, France and Norway; Groupe Bérodier with England, Iceland and Catalunya; and Groupe Jackson with Italy, Spain and Austria.

Notable absentees include Germany, Denmark and Sweden, who chose not to send a side so soon after the full-field European Championships in Dublin. Other active leagues not represented include Scotland, Wales, Russia, Netherlands and the Czech Republic.

Our team previews will continue to appear over the next week or two, with the England Dragonslayers the next to be featur ...

AFL Europe Algarve 9’s, Portugal – Lisbon Dockers' time to shine

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This weekend saw a tournament played in Vilamoura, Portugal, which was small in scale and number of teams, but potentially huge ramifications for the nations competing.

Originally looked at as a tournament for teams not going to the Axios Euro Cup in Bordeaux next weekend, the event was eventually populated by the Oslo Crows (whose players will be in Bordeaux as part of the Norway squad) as well as the Flying Dutchmen from the Netherlands and the Lisbon Dockers representing host nation Portugal.

According to David Valente, President of Futbal Australiano em Portugal, this event could have great benefits for football in his nation.

“I'm delighted that AFL Europe chose Portugal for this competition and that the Lisbon Dockers are able to take part in it. We hope that this is only the first of many "Algarve 9's" and that in the future not just one, but more Portuguese teams take part.”

“Our main problem is the lack of local opposition, it's hard to keep people motivated when all that you have to offer are informal training sessions.”

“Being able to face international opposition will be a great boost for us, and may also accelerate the creation of a second Portuguese team, which is currently being planned in Aveiro (Northern Portugal), with help from AFL Europe.”

This is the first formal international outing for some time for the Lisbon Dockers, and a chance to show their skills. They are also wanting to repay the faith to the Fremantle Dockers for their support.

“We hope that this will show the Fremantle Dockers that they can count on us to promote both Australian football and the Dockers club in Portugal.”

The event itself was won by the Flying Dutchmen after three round robin games and a final. The result of the lead up games were:

Game 1: Flying Dutchmen 56 d Oslo Crows 42

Game 2: Oslo Crows 70 d Lisbon Dockers 21

Game 3: Flying Dutchmen 49 d Lisbon Dockers 25

The final was subsequently played between the Flying Dutchmen and the Oslo Crows, with the might of the Dutchmen triumphing.

Flying Dutchmen 58 defeating Oslo Crows 27

Certainly this event has the potential to increase within the Iberian Peninsula alone, as both Spain and Catalunya (Catalonia) have nominated teams to this year’s Euro Cup. With squads already put together for those events, more 9’s tournaments playing against the Lisbon Dockers is certainly a distinct possibility and something to work towards to keep those players committed and active. This could also lead to more opportunities for the Andorran national team to compete on a more regular basis.

Overall, the Algarve 9’s tournament could be a key to linking nations and teams throughout Europe. Congratulations to the organisers, AFL Europe, as well as the competing teams and their supporters, and we look forward to more of these events in the not too distant future, as well as a possible new team to look out for in Portugal.

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Axios Euro Cup Team Preview – Irish Warriors

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In the next instalment of our series of articles looking at the preparation and prospects of the various nations competing at this year’s Axios Euro Cup in Bordeaux, we look at the story of the Irish Warriors.  Pat Leavy, acting team manager of the Bordeaux bound squad, gives us his insights.

The Journey:

“The ARFLI 2013 league season has been the most competitive since the league's formation.  We currently have six full time clubs spread across the country and we have now expanded into the universities and hopefully we will see new talent emerge from this pool of players. Finals footy culminated in the South Dublin Swans winning a very exciting Grand Final overturning a 26 point half time deficit to win by 20 points.  The Grand Final epitomised all that is good in the Irish League – hard but fair contests, great fielding and score taking and a never say die attitude.”

“This will be Ireland’s fourth participation in the Euro Cup having first competed in Milan in 2010 and we hope to continue our good record in the competition.”

The Preparation:

“As Ireland were hosts for the 16 a side European Championships in August, our main focus for 2013 was to try and retain the title on home soil.  Irish Coach Shaun McElhone and his assistants Paul Brogan and Brian Currane have made great progress with the 40 or so players vying to wear the Green Guernsey in 2013.” 

“Our preparation included two very useful friendly matches against Great Britain in April which resulted in one home win each.  Both teams learned a lot from these games and you could say that they were a taster for what was to come later on in the summer when we were very fortunate to beat the impressive Bulldogs in an exciting Grand Final.”

The Squad:

“The squad which will be travelling to Bordeaux will be captained once again by John O’Regan and will include members of the EC winning squad along with some promising young talent which has emerged from the 2013 league.”

 

The Squad for the Euro Cup is as follows:-

 

John O’Regan – Captain (Galway Magpies)

James Keogh (Galway Magpies)

Dom Joyce (Leeside Lions)

Aiden Slane (North Leinster Giants)

Tom McKenna (Belfast Redbacks

Stuart McKeating (Belfast Redbacks)

Brendan Kelly (Belfast Redbacks)

Myle Treanor (Dublin Demons)

Caoilte O’Baoil (Dublin Demons

Shane Liddy (South Dublin Swans)

Martin Ryan (South Dublin Swans)

Pat Leavy (North Leinster Giants)

Paul Brogan (Belfast Redbacks)

Brian Currane (Leeside Lions)

John Enright (Dublin Demons)

The Goal:

“Our goal is to take the tournament one game at a time and meet each challenge head on as they arise.  The game of 9 a side is different to the 16 a side game with time and space at a premium but we hope that the competition will provide our players with an opportunity to prove themselves ahead of the 2014 International Cup in Melbourne.”

The Final Word:

There is very little in the way of international titles that the Irish Warriors have not either won or performed well in over the past 12 months. It would be a brave punter to bet against the Warriors to win the title again, having proved their dominance at both the 9 and 16 a side formats. Should go into the tournament as strong favourites to defend their title.

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