Roar Rookie
Joined May 2020
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AFL mad POM!
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I have two confessions to make: I am a Pom, and I love the game of Aussie rules and the AFL. The game has…
The cricket grounds in the UK are unused once the season is over so I suppose they could be played on, but I’m sure the cricket clubs would be very protective of their pitches!
Playing the game in the winter in the UK would mean it was competing with football & rugby for players, it would be a struggle to prise those players away I think. The season here is played in the spring/summer which is good as the season for the main sports is over so you can get a few players looking to give something new a go. They often don’t stick with it because of the long traveling times for games.
How the AFL can go global
Totally agree with the accidental footballer, is class myself as one! After watching that first game I found a team nearby and gave it a go. The team I have sporadically played for has to travel 2 hours minimum for an away game as there are no teams close to us.
Targeting schools is a great way of building the game from the ground up, I must admit I didn’t know about the junior/schools program in the UK so hopefully in the coming years we’ll see an increased uptake in participation. I understand there are lots of practical/logistical issues in the game expanding but it really is a great game to play
How the AFL can go global
I’m based in the UK so have developed a passion for the game through watching it on the Watch AFL app and there are some live games shown on one of the UK’s sports channels. From watching the game it led me to find a club near me and give it a go and absolutely loved it! The only problem is that our closest team to play is 2 hours away!
How the AFL can go global
Hi Josh
I know I was being very optimistic with the article but I would love to see the game grow in the UK!
I came across the AFL by chance very early one Saturday morning 3 or 4 years ago, flicking through the channels and a bulldogs game was on live. I stuck it on and that was it, I was a convert!
As for tips I’d say try and get a good understanding of the rules as that will make watching more enjoyable as you’ll understand what’s going on better. Enjoy!
How the AFL can go global
Yeah born and raised in the UK so my only exposure to the AFL is through social media/internet. The Watch AFL app has been great in letting me consume as much footy as I want! Joining a club has helped and there are a few Aussies on the team who are great coaches, really enthusiastic and most of all very patient!
How the AFL can go global