World Footy News

In a story several weeks ago in Western Australia's Sunday Times it was reported that the AFL will look at staging a match, possibly a NAB Cup game, in South Africa in the next two seasons. This will be another significant step in their commitment to the game in that country. The story also mentions previously reported plans to spread the game into Western Cape, and suggests Natal for the first time (actually called Kwa Zulu Natal in South Africa).

The article on Sunday August 6th 2006 was by Digby Beacham, obviously a keen follower of the game's international growth, as many of his reports feature this aspect.

The story quotes AFL Game Development Manager David Matthews: "I would say there is every likelihood that a game will be played in South Africa in either 2007 or 2008, most likely an NAB Cup game". Beacham points to Fremantle and West Coast as strong candidates, and reports both clubs may look to do training camps there in 12 months.

The rough number of 3000 current players (mostly juniors) and 20,000 in 3 years was again cited, and a target of more than 70 senior clubs, each fielding under-16 and under-13 teams by 2010, with SAKICK as an Auskick equivalent planned for over 200 centres.

The AFL South Africa website also confirms that the partnership with the North West Cricket Association is going ahead, and has a story about the excellent new development officer heading to the Western Cape. The cricket agreement is listed as meaning "Sedgars Park will become the Administrative and Playing Headquarters of AFL South Africa". The impressive venue at Potchefstroom will be an important step towards AFLSA presenting a professional image to prospective sponsors and fans - having a fenced in oval and facilities is a dream shared by most international footy organisations.