World Footy News

After three successful years overseeing the continued rise of footy in the United States as USAFL President, Mark Wheeler has moved into the position of Australian Liasion, with Robert Oliver taking over the reigns of US footy. With Mark now living back in Melbourne he is well placed to continue to develop contacts with Australian business and football, no doubt looking to build on their good relationships such as that with AFL club Essendon.

The following is a release from the USAFL's new President, Robert Oliver:


Welcome from our New President

As the new President of the USAFL I would like to welcome you all to this new era of footy in the U.S.

Aussie Rules has been an important part of my life so it seemed only natural when I moved to New York from Melbourne that I would continue this interest. I served as Vice President - East for several years, but never believed when I attended my first USAFL meeting in Washington DC in January 03 that I would one day be President of this exciting and dynamic organisation.

I am grateful to Mark “Wheels” Wheeler for developing the League to the great organisation it is today. It is my plan to build on what Wheels has done over the three years of his Presidency to ensure that the League continues to grow and is answerable to all constituents. My goal is to focus on 2 - 3 areas and ensure they are done well. One of the great opportunities for promoting the growth of Aussie Rules in the US will be the LA game in January, where the Sydney Swans and Kangaroos will play. The League will be involved in this match, and the lead up to it. You will be hearing more about this in the coming months.

I am also anxious to have you all involved. If you have any special skills you can bring to the League, or would like to be involved, please contact me at president@usfooty.com. I would be happy to discuss your involvement - at whatever level - with you. Please also be sure to contact me with any concerns or suggestions you may have.

I look forward to hearing from you.


2006 USAFL Board Elected

At the Annual General Meeting held prior to the National Tournament, the following members were elected to the Executive:

Robert Oliver - President
Tom Ellis - Vice President - West
Jim Martin - Vice President - Central
Greg Narleski - Vice President - East
David Payne - Secretary
Andrew Bednall - Treasurer
Randall Upton - Member-At-Large

The following Portfolio members were announced:

Brian Green - National Umpire Coach & Director
Denis Ryan - USFootyKids Co-ordinator
Paul O’Keeffe - International Liaison
Mark Wheeler - Australian Liasion
Kathryn Hogg - Women's Portfolio
Matt Muller - Webmaster