World Footy News

The European Australian Football Association has appointed the first-ever full-time regional manager for the sport of Australian rules football in Europe, with Peter Romaniw the successful candidate.

EAFA Chairman Gerard Murphy says four candidates were interviewed in a marathon session on March 2nd. "Peter has been working with the AFL in a development role with coaching, umpires, administration and volunteers. He has degrees in Sports Administration and Sports Science, has previously worked overseas and speaks fluent Ukrainian."

"With such a large emphasis at both the Zagreb and Frankfurt Conferences being placed on umpiring, coaching and junior development and accreditation, the Commission are sure that Peter will be a wonderful asset to Australian Football in Europe," Murphy says.

Romaniw brings to the position a broad range of experience in both Game Development and politics, having previously worked as a Multicultural Development Officer with the Richmond Football Club and AFL Victoria, as well as Community Liaison Officer to the Australian Federal Minister for Sport.

He is also involved in a volunteer capacity with the Ukrainian World Congress International Sports Council, and worked as an observer to the 2004 Ukrainian Presidential Elections.

Whilst Gerard Murphy says the details are still being finalised, Romaniw is expected to take up the position in the coming weeks. WFN wishes him well on his appointment.