World Footy News

St Kilda AFL team boast Joe as an international scholarship player, and he is a part of the New Zealand juggernaut that is hoping to take away their second International Cup title in 2014. So, what do we know about Joe?

“I discovered AFL while I was at college when my P.E class entered our local tournament called the Hawks Cup which was at the start of April last year. So I played that then got told to trail for the Under 18's New Zealand team that plays against the VAFA team here from Australia. Then I also played for the Under 16's in the game against the Under 16's Flying Boomerangs. I then played for our senior New Zealand team against the AIS. This is my first International Cup!”
“The game in New Zealand is [going through] development each year. I'm from Wellington and our season is during summer. We have four teams that play each weekend. So it is not a long season at all.”

“I'm on an international scholarship with St Kilda FC. I got signed when I was 16 trialing for the Under 18's New Zealand team by Ameet Bains (Recruiting Manager) and Chris Pelchen (Head of Football). So one day I hope to play AFL footy. Whether that's next year or the year after that, it is the ultimate goal that I have set myself for footy.”

“My tips for the event? Obviously the New Zealand Hawks in the men’s competition and I hope the Canada Northern Lights can win the women’s.”

“I'd also like to say a big thanks to the New Zealand staff that have brought us on the tour, and wish good luck to all the teams competing in the International Cup.”