International AFL Comes to Blacktown

Thursday, August 4, 2011

International AFL comes to Blacktown for the first time with the City hosting the 2011 AFL International Cup from August 13 to 20 at Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney.


The International Cup, held every 3 years, is the most successful Aussie Rules tournament of its kind and sees over 700 players compete over 7 days of competition.


In what promises to be one of the most exciting and challenging AFL tournaments, the 2011 International Cup will showcase talent from 19 countries including Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, Nauru, Canada, USA, Japan, Great Britain, Denmark, Sweden, Peace, China, India and Australia as well as newcomers Tonga, France, Fiji and East Timor.


2011 also sees the introduction of a women's tournament with five countries competing for the inaugural title including Canada, Papua New Guinea, Ireland, USA and a combined Indigenous/Multicultural team from Australia.


The competition kicks off on Saturday 13 August with a 'Festival of Nations' celebration which will see Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Alan Pendleton, officially welcome teams to Blacktown City. Cultural activities on the day include an AFL Clinic at 9.30am, food stalls, face painting, jumping castles and of course all the AFL action on the field.


"Blacktown City is a vibrant multicultural community with over 184 Countries and 156 Languages represented within our City. It seems fitting that our great city play host to this year's AFL International Cup that will see teams from 19 nations compete over 7 days of competition," Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Alan Pendleton said.

First week competition will continue at the Blacktown International Sportpark Sydney on 15, 17, 18 and 20 August with games also being played in Kellyville, Holroyd, Auburn and Homebush. The competition heads to Melbourne for week two with the grand final played at the MCG on Saturday 27 August. Entry to all International Cup games at Blacktown International Sportspark is FREE.


For more information on the competition please visit www.ic11.com.au

Media Contact :
Ros Pullen - Media & Marketing Officer - Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney - 9839 6595
Karla Wyatt - Promotions Assistant - Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney - 9839 6593