The AFL Cairns is experiencing great success these days, but the history of footy there goes back to the 1950s, when it got its start in a way that will be very familiar to many new clubs in many different countries.

The votes are in from World Footy News' second online poll, asking what method of recruiting has been most successful for clubs - and the two top responses were the internet and old-fashioned word-of-mouth.

Each year the AFL holds draft camps around Australia, with talented young footballers tested to aid AFL clubs in making their draft choices. A tall young Englishman is creating some interest, setting a new sprint record.

Port Adelaide, in their eighth season in the Australian Football League, have claimed their first AFL Premiership, powering away from Brisbane in the second half of the 2004 Grand Final. Many considered both Port and Brisbane lucky to squeeze into the final, with narrow wins over St Kilda and Geelong, respectively. There was no such doubt at the final siren last Saturday at the MCG, with Port winning comfortably.

After probably the closest preliminary final weekend on record, the two dominant sides of recent years have advanced to the 2004 AFL Grand Final.

After many years of dreaming of an AFL match being played in the United States, 2005 was firming as a big chance, as part of Australia Week celebrations in LA. The latest news is that the game looks unlikely.

World Footy News\' inaugural poll has come to a close - with the subject of the first international Australian Rules competition to provide an AFL draftee coming under the microscope.

And the readers\' vote has started some discussion...

Although worldfootynews.com focuses on leagues and clubs around the world, primarily outside of Australia, it would be remiss of us not to mention that the finals are on for the world's premier Australian Rules league - the AFL.

The Japan Samurai and a South Island New Zealand side have battled it out in a tight contest at Optus Oval in Melbourne, Australia.

Further information on the AFL's international development policy.