World XVIII Ugandan excites SANFL
- Monday, May 23 2011 @ 08:14 pm ACST
- Contributed by: Brett Northey
- Views: 3,544

We've had some comments and links regarding Ugandan sensation Emmanuel Irra but it's worth noting his rise as a separate article. He first came to our attention last year as a 16 year old when he was selected for the World XVIII to compete in the NAB AFL Under 16s.
Irra made his league debut for South Adelaide a few weeks ago, a remarkable effort at 17 years of age, with only a brief history in the game. Irra is playing some exciting footy and must surely be on the cusp of being drafted into the AFL. With so many young African immigrants in Adelaide playing soccer Irra's success could be a strong positive for footy winning over the next generation. And of course if he makes it to the AFL he could have a similar national significance, as well as continue to highlight the benefits for the AFL of a push into Africa.
Some of his highlights have been posted on Youtube:
[youtube:WCbotEmbbkA&feature=player_detailpage]