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US TV deal update

  • Saturday, April 23 2005 @ 12:45 am ACST
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North America

The US television deal for the broadcast of local USAFL matches has created much excitement but also scepticism. The USAFL have issued a statement that they accept there may be teething problems with the ASTN deal in its first year, but they remain confident that it will be a great step forward for the game in America. The release follows.

New Developments with the Broadcasting of Footy Games in the US

With the season creeping upon us, most Clubs have been excited about the prospect that ASTN will be filming games soon, yet frustrated in the lack of information available.

Seven USAFL teams have shown interest in holding games that ASTN could film. This is great news for the USAFL, with the biggest winner being the exposure of the sport to American television views.

Every month from now the TV committee will release a report on what is currently happening with the deal in the monthly USAFL newsletter. “There has been a lot of work done behind the scenes that wasn't available for public kowledge. The TV committee has worked tirelessly to get this ompleted before April. The first game to be filmed has been earmarked for Anzac Day 2005, to be possibly shown on ASTN sometime in May“, said Scott Hunt.

League President Mark Wheeler added “with most new ventures information may be slow to be released to the public. There were many mountains to cross and a lot of unknowns to work through. I am happy with the progress to date - having a committee working closely with ASTN, USAFL, AFL and corporate businesses take a lot of work. It was clearly two steps forward, one step backwards with this, but the job is getting done“.

ASTN have added a footy page on their web, please visit and have a look at the information. As the project takes off, new web pages will be added to the ASTN site.

Please be patient with the USAFL and ASTN in the first year. We are convinced that the televising of games will add an exciting new dimension to our League. As well as introducing our sport to the American public, each Club which participates will increase its profile in its community. It has been a challenge to bring this to fruition, but we believe that with our determination and your support any problems will be overcome.

By USAFL TV Committee, 6 April 2005