World Footy News

Getting a squad of 33 players, as well as officials, down to Australia is no small task for any of the countries heading to the 2008 Australian Football International Cup, and generous sponsors play a huge role. China was no exception, and although they committed to the process and will be a very exciting addition to international footy, up until quite recently there were still some doubts about getting the team to Australia - what a great opportunity lost if they had not made it. Fortunately a major sponsor in Mitchells and their Australian partner company, Oomiak, backed the Red Demons to the point that they will indeed be appearing at the IC08. Mitchells design, manufacture and install conveying and materials handling systems worldwide. Oomiak's expertise includes industrial refrigeration. The Mitchells website also features a great history of footy in China and their plans for the IC08.

According to China Australian Football Development Officer, Andrew Sawitsch, the key driver was Mic Mittasch, president of the Beijing Australian Rules Football Club and Mitchells Executive Director. "Mic has played footy in China... ever since footy has been played in China. Back when the then China Blues team went on tour to the Asian Championships in Singapore in 2002, Mic was part of the team, and he has thoroughly enjoyed seeing the growth of footy since then - from a few footy mad Aussies coming together to go on tour, to now having sound development at a local level and regular matches between Shanghai and Beijing".

"Mitchells in collaboration with their Australian partner company, Oomiak, see a lot of similarities between the Chinese Australian Football Team and their own businesses, all are aware of the importance and future in China, and all are aiming to increase a presence and awareness of themselves and their new ideas to China for the long term". So when you wonder what supports the growth of Aussie Rules, remember companies like Mitchells and Oomiak.

In addition to the Mitchells Oomiak combination as premier sponsors, the China Red Demons are also supported by the Commonwealth through the Australia-China Council of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, as well as official support from Telstra China and official carrier, Qantas.

Mic Mittasch of Mitchells chatting with the Australian Ambassador to China , Dr. Geoff Raby as well as "Kochie" from Australian television show "Sunrise", with other distinguished guests who have supported the team.

The Ambassador

The Beijing Bombers and the China Red Demons