World Footy News

The Manchester Mosquitoes have a busy year in front of them, competing in not one, but two leagues. While remaining committed to the AFL Britain's Social League, the Mozzies will also compete on a social basis in Aussie Rules UK's new Central division, together with a growing crop of fellow local clubs across the Merseyside, Midlands and Yorkshire regions.

Manchester president Kat Wheeler told WFN "We have been trying to work with ARUK in the region to get the new clubs off the ground. The Huddersfield Rams are doing really well and have a couple of really enthusiastic people running the show up there. We have some pretty strong links established with the Rams and it's fantastic to have a new local rival! We have had some training together and are planning a few games and social events for the year. The Rams are definitely here to stay."

"We are playing in the AFL Britain social league again but we are also playing with the ARUK Central clubs on a social basis fitting in games where possible and providing a central point for the new clubs to get information and experience."

"This may change next year depending on how that league goes. If a strong enough league emerges we will definitely be in it."

"I've had contact with Liverpool and Birmingham who are looking forward to having a few friendlies with us and apparently Leeds has now sorted out a team. It's going to be interesting to see what happens up here in ARUK this year, whether all these clubs can get it together and get a real league sorted. In the meantime, Manchester are trying to help the new clubs as best we can whilst still being committed to AFL Britain."

The Mozzies won't be hosting a club tournament this year, however they are planning a trip to Ireland, where they will take on new Irish regional club the Mayo Mariners in September.