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One of the world’s most curious of sports, International Rules Football, is set for a return to our TV screens in a few days time when Australia travel to Ireland for the First Test on October 23.
For some AFL fans, this series is little more than a fly on the wall, a cheesy promotion designed to generate some cash for either the AFL or its Ireland equivalent, the GAA.
However, the not so recent history of this code of football may suggest otherwise. Australian coach Michael Malthouse yesterday had his 23 man squad gather for the first training session at Arden St Oval.
The Australian team departs on Saturday night, in preparation for the first test in Limerick on October 23. That match will (hopefully) be shown live on Channel 7 at 5am that Sunday, Melbourne time.
Although the 2009 series was a no show, due to supposed economic concerns, an optimistic supporter should rightfully feel that this year is the beginning of another chapter in this peculiar sport.
It’s the complexity of the sport, the fact it combines two indigenous codes of football, and presents a spectacle about 60-40 in favor of Gaelic Football that makes it, in every sense of the word, ‘unique.’
At the same time though, this particular code of football has huge potential to generate enjoyment from a variety of sport fans. AFL supporter, Irish fans and even Soccer die hards could sit down and watch this sport, reasonably happy with what they are seeing.
Although the Series will always have its critics, what can seriously be wrong about arranging a two Test series between two famous sporting countries, for a small amount of players who would otherwise not have the opportunity to represent their country? I cannot help but be excited at the upcoming series.
Both squads appear to be extremely well matched, which should make for some entertaining plays and tight finishes.
Indeed, if the 2008 series is anything to go by, the players might put on a spectacle that even Rugby fans will enjoy! Regardless of your preferred code, I would recommend any decent sports fan to wake up early Sunday next and sit back and enjoy a game of football that (when viewed unbiasedly) is guaranteed to entertain.
Go Australia!
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