2023 Euro Cup Team Previews – Part Eight

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With less than 24 hours to go until the Euro Cup, the excitement and anticipation is building for the 16 countries that will venture out to our new location in Kiel, Germany, vying for the opportunity of becoming the best country in Europe at Australian Rules Football. In an extraordinary story that will play out across the day, two countries will be looking for a four-peat – an unprecedented feat that may never be seen again. The Irish Banshees, dominant in the grand final last year, will be vying for glory again, but there will be nine other sides hungry to stop them in their tracks. In the men’s side of the draw, the England Dragonslayers will be desperate to repeat their last three contests at the Euro Cup, but 14 determined countries will be fighting for a change at the top.

As is the common approach for AFL Europe’s biggest tournaments, we love to get an insight into the build-up and preparation for the teams competing, as well as the history of these sides, and we continue our team previews with the two English sides – Dragons and Vixens and the European Crusaders.

England Dragons (Men) and England Vixens (Women)

Both English sides have seen great success at past Euro Cup competitions. The Men, as mentioned above, will be eyeing off a four-peat, whilst the Women’s side will be desperate to make amends for last years runners up performance and win their first Euro Cup since 2017. Both teams were straight forward in their comments to AFL Europe, just hoping to play the best footy they can and to enjoy the experience in a new country. With a dominant history at this tournament, will a new venue allow the sides to retain or regain their positions at the top? We will find out in under 24 hours time. 

European Crusaders

With a small unit of footballers in the Netherlands, it has taken a great deal of work to get a Dutch side to travel to Kiel. Team Manager/player Ilse Bot was close to forfeiting, before the idea of a team of Dutch, Danish and Czech residents came to mind. With the team not having training sessions together, and still getting to know each others skills and gameplay the day will be a learning experience for all. Although coming into Kiel as underdogs, Ilse spoke of the desire to ‘surprise some other teams with our Dutch/Danish/Czech talents’.

 

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

2023 Euro Cup Team Previews – Part Seven

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We have less than 24 hours to go until the Euro Cup and the excitement and anticipation is building for the 16 countries that will venture out to our new location in Kiel, Germany, vying for the opportunity of becoming the best country in Europe at Australian Rules Football. In an extraordinary story that will play out across the day, two countries will be looking for a four-peat – an unprecedented feat that may never be seen again. The Irish Banshees, dominant in the grand final last year, will be vying for glory again, but there will be nine other sides hungry to stop them in their tracks. In the men’s side of the draw, the England Dragonslayers will be desperate to repeat their last three contests at the Euro Cup, but 14 determined countries will be fighting for a change at the top.

As is the common approach for AFL Europe’s biggest tournaments, we love to get an insight into the build-up and preparation for the teams competing, as well as the history of these sides, and we continue our team previews with the Netherlands Flying Dutchmen, the Welsh Red Dragons and the Scottish Sirens.

Netherland Flying Dutchmen

The following has been sent in by the Dutchmen and written by Tom Durling:

The year is 2023, and the Flying Dutchmen has just set sail and is headed to Kiel, with only one goal in mind. Having been re-formed last year, the Netherlands Men’s team head into this Euro Cup more advanced and more connected, and ready to challenge the big AFL Europe powers for the trophy. Finishing last year in a disappointing 11th place, we look forward to this year’s tournament to show what we are truly are made of, and that it’s still possible to play footy while wearing clogs!

Our AFL Netherlands season is in full swing, with each member taking part in a league with three different teams, with regular games and weekly training sessions. The team has been building both on and off the pitch, with social events bringing players closer together, strengthening the chemistry within the team.

Going into the tournament we of course want to see our hard work pay off and see a better result than last year, however we also want to have as much fun as possible. Bringing football lovers from all over Europe together into one place doesn’t happen often, and it is absolutely something to celebrate. Everyone on board the Flying Dutchmen has one thing in common, we all love footie, and we want to show that with our skills, and our passion for the game. We look forward to a day filled with footy and fun, and we hope to get a few wins the bag as well!

Welsh Red Dragons

Wales have been competing in Euro Cup since 2010 with a few years off since now and then. Bordeaux and last year were the best finishes for Wales over the years both achieving 5th place. Hearing from those at the Dragons, the general consensus is that the Euro cup is the Red Dragons favourite tournament of the year, with it ‘always being great playing against the different countries across Europe’.

Preparation for the tournament has involved a number of weekend training sessions, strava based running logs as well as fitting in weekday and weekend training with fellow players in Wales and the London Leagues. With a committed and positive preparation for the tournament, the aim is ‘getting into the top 4’, boosted by having ‘a mix of older heads alongside some new fresh blood’.

Scottish Sirens

The Sirens recorded their most successful Euro Cup in last year’s competition finishing third. Hearing from the Sirens coaching staff, it ‘was incredibly hard to cut the squad down to 16’, demonstrating the belief that a strong side is coming to Kiel in 2023.

‘Last year we had a pretty inexperienced side, but we have eight players from last year’s Euro Cup side who know what to expect from a competition like this, added to with great new talent so we are excited to see what we can do with another 12 months experience.’

The overall aim for the Euro Cup is to win it. ‘We think we have a squad that can take us deep into the tournament but we know it’s a huge challenge and we will need to be at our absolute best’. ‘We want to showcase the growth, improvement and competitiveness we have seen across the SARFLW in over the last 12 months.’

 

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

2023 Euro Cup Team Previews – Part Six

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With under 48 hours until the Euro Cup, the excitement and anticipation is building for the 16 countries that will venture out to our new location in Kiel, Germany, vying for the opportunity of becoming the best country in Europe at Australian Rules Football. In an extraordinary story that will play out across the day, two countries will be looking for a four-peat – an unprecedented feat that may never be seen again. The Irish Banshees, dominant in the grand final last year, will be vying for glory again, but there will be nine other sides hungry to stop them in their tracks. In the men’s side of the draw, the England Dragonslayers will be desperate to repeat their last three contests at the Euro Cup, but 14 determined countries will be fighting for a change at the top.

As is the common approach for AFL Europe’s biggest tournaments, we love to get an insight into the build-up and preparation for the teams competing, as well as the history of these sides, and we continue our team previews with the Men’s German Eagles, the Swedish Elks and Ulster Macha’s.

German Eagles (Men)

The German Eagles (M) first played at the AFL Euro Cup in 2007, finishing in 2nd place on home soil in Hamburg. They achieved 3rd place at the following three events in Prague (Czech Republic), Bordeaux (France), and Norrtalje (Sweden). At the 2022 Euro Cup in Edinburgh, the Eagles once again reached the final and finished second.

The Eagles men trained together in Dresden for their first 2023 camp, with another camp in Cologne taking place in the last two weeks. The team is an extremely strong one according to all reports, with many other exceptional players waiting in the wings, and so far the preparation is going well – despite a later start to the league season.

The German Eagles men’s team are aiming to continue the team first attitude that they demonstrated in 2022; working hard with and for each other. 2022 provided mixed success on the field, but have an ever-growing work ethic to improve, which should see the team being a strong competitor on the field again this year. In addition, they want to join with the Eagles women and encourage all of the nations to get together on the sidelines to help showcase the spirit of Aussie Rules throughout Europe.

Swedish Elks

The Swedish Elks have been consistent performers in the Euro Cup for the last decade. The team is a spread from across Sweden consisting of mostly players from Stockholm, Norrtälje and Malmö. Preparation has been tough with international matches scheduled but unfortunately cancelled. Norrtälje and Stockholm have been playing consistently against each other, however Malmö play in the Danish league so it can be difficult to get together and see everyone.

Speaking to members of the team, there is a core of four to five players who have played the last four tournaments, who are great mates and excellent people who create a unifying and welcoming team. ‘It was clear we had under performed in Scotland, finishing outside the top 10…we did not gel early as a unit…this showed losing to a team by one or 2 points then playing them later in the day and winning by over 10 goals’. Getting off to a good start will be key for the elks, who are eyeing off a spot in the top five.

Ulster Macha

AFL Northern Ireland only gained status as an AFL Europe affiliated partner country in November of 2021. The Euro Cup will see the Ulster Macha’s make history as not only will it be the Macha’s first ever official competition but will also double up as their first ever matches played. What makes it even more special is that for the very first time both of the Irish Teams, North and South of Ireland will be competing in the Euro Cup.

AFL Europe spoke with team manager Gerard Walls, who gave some insight into the side; ‘Ulster is a province that covers the geographical area of the North of Ireland and Macha is a sovereignty goddess and legend has it that she is the only queen in the List of High Kings of ancient Ireland and linked with the province of Ulster and associated with the land, fertility, kingship and war. That being said anyone getting the opportunity to wear a Ulster Macha’s jersey can wear it with great spirit and pride in representing Macha, Ulster and Ireland’.

‘We have a relatively new squad of players, around 75% of our players are first year players either coming of the back of the AFL Ulster Winter league or only picking the game up in the new year and still very much learning the game, but with that comes great opportunity to experience new things and learn.’

‘We have players coming in from the Oilean Hounds, East Coast Eagles, Ulster Kookaburras and Cardiff Panthers, some of the team had the opportunity to experience 9aisde tournament footy at this years Club Champions league in Paris.  We know our two Cardiff based players Elise and Caoimhe are working hard and playing games in Wales and our Ulster based girls are holding weekly sessions and playing for the Ulster Kookaburras over the Summer footy season, so hopefully the girls fell fit and ready for the Euro Cup.’

With it being the side’s first attempt at the Euro Cup, Walls has put no pressure on any of the players. With no real expectation for what is to occur in Kiel, the main focus is enjoyment and the ability to express their talents to those in Europe.

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

2023 Euro Cup Team Previews – Part Five

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With only three days to go until the Euro Cup, the excitement and anticipation is building for the 16 countries that will venture out to our new location in Kiel, Germany, vying for the opportunity of becoming the best country in Europe at Australian Rules Football. In an extraordinary story that will play out across the day, two countries will be looking for a four-peat – an unprecedented feat that may never be seen again. The Irish Banshees, dominant in the grand final last year, will be vying for glory again, but there will be nine other sides hungry to stop them in their tracks. In the men’s side of the draw, the England Dragonslayers will be desperate to repeat their last three contests at the Euro Cup, but 14 determined countries will be fighting for a change at the top.

As is the common approach for AFL Europe’s biggest tournaments, we love to get an insight into the build-up and preparation for the teams competing, as well as the history of these sides, and we continue our team previews with the Israeli Beasts, the Ulster Wolfhounds and the Scottish Clansmen.

Israeli Beasts

The Israeli Men’s national team (The Beasts) has participated in the 2019 EC finishing 13th and improving to an 8th place finish at the 2022 EC. Prior to that, an Israeli team has participated in the EC since 2015 (Tel-Aviv Cheetahs, Jerusalem peace lions), and finished no higher than 11th place.

Speaking to coach Ido Schnitzer, he said ‘footy in Israel has taken a big step up in the last 12 months. Following a positive momentum off the EC 22 in Edinburgh, we have seen a significant increase in numbers of participants, an increase in training sessions, strengthening of the management and coaching teams, and much more. This has led to the sharpening of the skills for new players, and we hope for better team chemistry overall.’

The major lead-up event was the inaugural AFL Israel Anzac match held this April in the historic city of Beersheba in Israel. This was a tournament featuring 62 players, half were Israelis, and half were Aussies from the UAE and from the Vienna Galahs team. In the Anzac match, the Israeli players faced quality opponents, culminating in a tightly fought grand final between one of the Israeli teams and team Australia-UAE. Playing against Australians is always a challenge, both physically and tactically, and the feel that came out of the Anzac event was motivation and confidence in their form towards the 2023 Eurocup.

Ulster Wolfhounds

In their inaugural Euro Cup, the Wolfhounds couldn’t be more excited for Kiel. With several training sessions being held in the lead-up to the big day, coach Declan McClements is hoping for a gelled and motivated side. With inexperience possibly playing a factor on the day, McClements spoke of the key aim for the day being enjoyment and to remain competitive throughout the day. Through encouraging the team to just have fun, ‘it will allow the players to relax and soak up the experience of their debut on the biggest stage outside of Australia.’

Scottish Clansmen

The Clansmen have been improving and becoming more consistent as a side over the past 3 Euro tournaments,  finishing 8th, 9th and 6th – their highest finish in the 15 team tournament format last year in Edinburgh.
Speaking to the club, a very strong preparation for this year’s tournament has occurred thanks to the organisation of our team manager John McIntyre, with the playing squad committing to several squad training sessions pre Kiel and buying into improving their fitness levels.
Two new assistant coaches in Adam Jack and Duncan Fell will also boost the Scottish chances at the Euro Cup, who will lead the forward and back lines. Both have helped the team immensely and the players are benefiting from their vast experience.
The players and coaching staff wanted to make sure last years results weren’t a one off, so we have set ourselves a goal of maintaining top 6 with our ultimate goal to break into the top 4. A very challenging goal with the depth of footy in Europe but one the players are very hungry to try achieve.

 

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

2023 Euro Cup Team Previews – Part Four

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We have just nine days until the Euro Cup and the excitement and anticipation is building for the 16 countries that will venture out to our new location in Kiel, Germany, vying for the opportunity of becoming the best country in Europe at Australian Rules Football. In an extraordinary story that will play out across the day, two countries will be looking for a four-peat – an unprecedented feat that may never be seen again. The Irish Banshees, dominant in the grand final last year, will be vying for glory again, but there will be nine other sides hungry to stop them in their tracks. In the men’s side of the draw, the England Dragonslayers will be desperate to repeat their last three contests at the Euro Cup, but 14 determined countries will be fighting for a change at the top.

As is the common approach for AFL Europe’s biggest tournaments, we love to get an insight into the build-up and preparation for the teams competing, as well as the history of these sides, and we continue our team previews with the Austrian Avalanches, French Coqs and the Denmark Vikings.

Austrian Avalanche

The Austrian side have a rich history at the Euro Cup, competing for the 15th time in 2023. Labelling themselves as ‘the underdog’ of the competition, they frequently aim to be the surprise packet of the competition. With a strengthened team this year due to a number of Vienna Galah players taking their place in the side, the key aim for the Austrians is a ‘single digit finish’, something they have achieved several times in the past. One factor that may improve the sides chances is the growth of competition they are now playing in. Forming a league with the Budapest Bats and Prague Dragons for the upcoming 2023 season will mean the Avalanche team will face new competition on a regular basis, no doubt leading to improvement amongst all.

French Coqs

Similar to the Austrian’s, the French Coqs side have been in the cup since 2005, with their best finish in 2013 claiming the silver medal. The preparation for the Coqs team will be the ideal beginning in what marks their 16th attempt at claiming the Euro Cup, demolishing the Australian Spirit side in Villers Bretonneux in April. On top of this, they have organised a dedicated weekend of preparation two weeks out before the competition, with aims to ‘grow the team spirit, train playing footy together of course but enjoy and have some good fun as a team too’. With this sort of lead-up facing tough competition, it wouldn’t be a shock to see the Coqs improve off last years efforts of seventh.

 

Denmark Vikings

Albeit five years ago, the last time the Vikings attended the Euro Cup they came away champions. With a very different side than previous however, manager Morten Merhøj claimed that previous results ‘don’t really mean much’. Having that in mind, a training weekend before the Euro Cup where the national coach was able to gain a greater insight of what sort of side they would be, no doubt beneficial for all involved. Citing the inability to have ‘national team activity’ to prepare, and an increased competition than previous years, the Vikings aren’t as confident as they would like. Despite this, nobody knows what the day can bring, and the Denmark squad will be determined to match their victory in 2018, during this year’s edition.

 

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

2023 Euro Cup Team Previews – Part Three

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With less than a month to go until the Euro Cup, the excitement and anticipation is building for the 16 countries that will venture out to our new location in Kiel, Germany, vying for the opportunity of becoming the best country in Europe at Australian Rules Football. In an extraordinary story that will play out across the day, two countries will be looking for a four-peat – an unprecedented feat that may never be seen again. The Irish Banshees, dominant in the grand final last year, will be vying for glory again, but there will be nine other sides hungry to stop them in their tracks. In the men’s side of the draw, the England Dragonslayers will be desperate to repeat their last three contests at the Euro Cup, but 14 determined countries will be fighting for a change at the top.

As is the common approach for AFL Europe’s biggest tournaments, we love to get an insight into the build-up and preparation for the teams competing, as well as the history of these sides, and we continue our team previews with the French Gauloises, the Irish Warriors, and the German Eagles Women.

French Gauloises

The Gauloises first participated in the Euro Cup in 2013, having played it in every competition since. Mixed results have seemingly been the case, with their best result coming in Croatia in 2015 where they finished 3rd. With the French season starting in September, they have had a wonderful preparation coming into Kiel, despite having to deal with several injuries. Just recently, the Gauloises competed in a fantastic game of Aussie Rules against Australia at the Anzac Cup, losing by two goals but ‘fighting until the very last minute’. Heading into the tournament, the Gauloises are aiming to ‘display a strong team spirit on and off the pitch’, something they achieved so well at the recent Villers Bretonneux visit against Australia.

 

Irish Warriors

The beginning of the Warriors Euro cup journey was of one absolute success, winning in 2010 and 2011, 12 years later they are yet to taste success since. With a new side in 2022, they had an improved effort finishing 3rd, building the foundations for an assault on the trophy in 2023. After trials all over the country, a strong mix of ‘new and experienced talent’ will be featuring, ‘hoping to go one better and make the big dance’ this time around. Under ‘no illusion’ of the task at hand this year with strong competition as usual, it will be tough for the Warriors but no doubt a side full of belief and determination will be ready for what lays ahead.

German Eagles Women

Euro Cup began in fine style for the Eagles in 2018, finishing 5th after a competitive day of matches. A year later they just missed out on a grand final birth in a tight loss against England, but picked themselves up to finish 3rd. With a two year pause on the competition due to the pandemic, unfortunately they couldn’t find their 2019 form and slumped down to 5th. The German league has just began, giving players a perfect lead-up to the tournament, in tandem with two weekend training camps earlier this year. ‘To win as many games as possible’ is the main goal for the Eagles, eager to ‘make a change’ to the English and Irish dominance we have seen for ‘far too long’.

 

 

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

Jason Pedulla appointed as new General Manager

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The AFL Europe Commission are thrilled to announce the appointment of Jason Pedulla as the new General Manager for AFL Europe. Jason joins us with an impressive background and a wealth of relevant experience that will undoubtedly propel AFL Europe to new heights.

We eagerly anticipate working with him and are confident that his leadership skills and strategic vision will greatly benefit our members and fans. As we embark on this exciting new chapter with Jason at the helm, we remain committed to promoting the growth and development of Australian Rules Football in Europe.

Together, with Jason’s leadership and the collective efforts of our dedicated team, we are confident that AFL Europe will continue to thrive and make significant strides in the years to come.

We would also like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to Claudia Davey, our outgoing General Manager, for her exceptional contributions during her tenure. We extend our best wishes to Claudia for a successful future ahead.

Trent Smyth

Chair, AFL Europe

Pedulla joins the AFL Europe team in London from Tottenham Hotspur FC, where he was part of the Global Football Development department.

Before joining Tottenham Hotspur, Pedulla already had extensive experience within sporting organisations, working with grassroots and elite level sporting organisations including East Perth Football Club, the West Australian Olympic Council, and the South Fremantle Football Club, varying between commercial and talent pathway departments.

Pedulla discussed his exciting appointment, full of belief and optimism about what the future holds for all involved in the AFL Europe community.

“Having worked in a variety of sports at all levels, I understand the challenges faced by sporting organisations and believe I can provide leadership, clear communication, and a strong operational understanding to offer support and put processes in place so the community can focus on what they do best – developing and playing the game.”

“Moving forward I hope that we can grow participation at a youth level which will come with its own unique set of challenges.”

Further discussing his recent appointment, Pedulla commented how “the opportunity to work alongside a diverse range of local communities throughout Europe who are all passionate about playing, developing, and growing participation in our great game” was a major part of the excitement in accepting the role.

“I genuinely believe in the power of sport for development and the positive impact it can have on an individual’s wellbeing as well as a wider benefit to the community. I hope to use local knowledge and expertise to highlight these benefits and encourage participation at any level as either a player, coach, umpire, or volunteer.”

Outgoing AFL Europe GM Claudia Davey also spoke about her time with the organisation.

“It has been an absolute pleasure to lead the AFL Europe community over the past two years. The passion and dedication of our volunteers and players to re-build their clubs and competitions after a very challenging few years is to be commended.”

“Seeing 20 countries come together to play Australian Rules Football in international competition, many of whom have never visited Australia or seen a game on television is an incredible experience and reflects the culture, values and community created in clubs for the sport to thrive in Europe.”

“I wish Jason all the success in this role and can’t wait for him to experience his first international Australian Rules event, Euro Cup this July.”

Jason has already began in his role, but will take over the general manager role solely when Claudia’s time at AFL Europe ends on June 20.

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

 

2023 Euro Cup Team Previews – Part Two

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With less than a month to go until the Euro Cup, the excitement and anticipation is building for the 16 countries that will venture out to our new location in Kiel, Germany, vying for the opportunity of becoming the best country in Europe at Australian Rules Football. In an extraordinary story that will play out across the day, two countries will be looking for a four-peat – an unprecedented feat that may never be seen again. The Irish Banshees, dominant in the grand final last year, will be vying for glory again, but there will be nine other sides hungry to stop them in their tracks. In the men’s side of the draw, the England Dragonslayers will be desperate to repeat their last three contests at the Euro Cup, but 14 determined countries will be fighting for a change at the top.

As is the common approach for AFL Europe’s biggest tournaments, we love to get an insight into the build-up and preparation for the teams competing, as well as the history of these sides, and we continue our team previews with the Irish Banshees, and the two Swiss sides, Heidis (women’s) and Wolves (men’s).

Irish Banshees

Undoubtedly the strongest side of the competition over the last decade of Euro Cup competition, the Irish Banshees are looking to make it four in a row when they depart for Kiel. The Banshees have had three of their players debut in the VFLW in Australia, an incredible achievement and something we can continue to look forward to as the standard of Aussie Rules rises in Ireland according to the coaching team. Speaking with AFL Europe, team manager Shane Beggan stated the team had one thing on their mind come the morning of July 8; ‘winning’. If the Banshees were to win again in 2023, it would mean a sixth title since 2010!

 

Swiss Heidis and Swiss Wolves

The Swiss Heidis haven’t been overly successful in their two attempts at winning the Euro Cup, however they come into the 2023 tournament with ‘well-attended’ training sessions and ‘high morale’. The excitement to build on last year is clear and having only recorded one win in 2019 and none in 2022, their main goal is to either match their 2019 result or better. Since 2017, the Swiss Wolves have competed in every Euro Cup, and have shown positive progression in the six years. Two last places began their Euro Cup experience, but since then have managed to record several wins which they see as their main goal this year. Similar to the Heidis, strong training numbers and a hunger to rectify their last place finish in 2022 will see a fit and firing Wolves side in Kiel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

2023 Euro Cup Team Previews – Part One

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With less than a month to go until the Euro Cup, the excitement and anticipation is building for the 16 countries that will venture out to our new location in Kiel, Germany, vying for the opportunity of becoming the best country in Europe at Australian Rules Football. In an extraordinary story that will play out across the day, two countries will be looking for a four-peat – an unprecedented feat that may never be seen again. The Irish Banshees, dominant in the grand final last year, will be vying for glory again, but there will be ten other sides hungry to stop them in their tracks. In the men’s side of the draw, the England Dragonslayers will be desperate to repeat their last three contests at the Euro Cup, but 15 determined countries will be fighting for a change at the top.

As is the common approach for AFL Europe’s biggest tournaments, we love to get an insight into the build-up and preparation for the teams competing, as well as the history of these sides, and we begin the Euro Cup proceedings with both Polish sides – the Devils and Angels, as well as the Croatian Knights.

Polish Devils and Angels

The Devils have a short history in regards to this tournament, having their first hit out in 2019 which unfortunately yielded little success. After a learning experience three years prior, they were eager to improve in 2022 and did such, having two close losses against Austria and Netherland, whilst recording their first Euro Cup win later that day against Switzerland. Much like their counterparts, the Angels have only had a short stint within the Euro Cup, debuting in 2022. Unable to secure victories against the Swedish and Dutch teams, their first win came against the Swiss Heidis. With an identical finish to the Euro Cup in 2022, both teams will be hoping to utilise the experience for the 2023 Euro Cup.

The Polish teams are taking a new approach into this year’s tournament, deciding to implement a selection camp where eligible players will train under the head coach of each team, eager to impress the selection committee in hope of a spot in the sides travelling to Kiel. After selection takes place, the teams will then train with each other to understand each other’s style and develop chemistry which has possibly eluded them in previous cups.

The expectation at the tournament with this new approach according to team manager Phil Forbes is to ‘win a minimum of two games each’, whilst also ensuring all players understand ‘the honour and pride’ that comes with playing for the national team.

Croatian Knights

The Knights come into the Euro Cup with as much history and experience a team can have. Beginning in 2008 before it was even called the Euro Cup, the Croatians were a strong outfit, finishing third in the inaugural tournament. A year later, the Knights were determined to right the wrongs of the previous year and came away victors. These first two years were a key building block in how they were to attack future Euro Cups, and having been competing for 15 years, they have had multiple 2nd’s, 3rd’s and another win in 2016. Speaking with coach Josip Kravar, he maintained that ‘we do not run from being a top 4 team’, having managed this feat in every single Euro Cup. Facing many difficulties in the early editions of the tournament, which involved multiple days travel across several forms of transport including ferries, cars, buses and flights all to get to one location, the Knights coach was adamant that these experiences have shaped who they are as a side today.

One factor Josip felt gave the Knights an advantage over other sides, was the ability to have all three Croatian teams located in Zagreb, giving the ability for the national team to train every single weekend since February. 9 a-side is their regular format of play, and it is the familiarity with that arrangement that the Knights coach was confident gave them an edge coming into the Euro Cup.

To conclude his feelings towards the tournament in July, Josip stressed the importance of not underestimating the competitors involved. Stating the Knights had ‘a huge respect for any opponent we face’, he felt a birth in the semi-finals would be a success but overall they were ‘aiming for the flag’.

 

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe

2023 ANZAC Cup Weekend Review

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32 Australian representatives embarked from various cities around the globe to Villers-Bretonneux, France, competing against the French National Australian Rules teams in the 13th contest of the Anzac Cup.

The weekend started through an AusKick style clinic, with many local kids coming out for a kick of the footy with players from both countries. The smiles on the faces of all involved told the whole story and whilst communication was tough at times, the willingness of the French to support the Australian players ensured a wonderful afternoon of fun and laughter was spread across the Stade Timmerman turf in the heart of town. Jumper presentations soon followed, with Emily Rohr and Jack Rowland receiving the honour of captaining the Australian Women’s and Men’s side respectively. Congratulations must go out to those two players who both showed wonderful initiative and commitment to the weekend months out, which continued on during the early duties on Saturday morning and across the following days. Nicholas Boché was awarded captain of the French Coq’s, whilst Camille Portal would take the leadership position in the Gauloises side.

Sunday soon arrived, beginning with a march through the town with rain starting to fall. It didn’t seem like the weather would be as kind to us as it was for the Champions League – this prediction ringing true as the day went on. The Women’s game kicked off proceedings, and it was clear it was going to be a hotly contested match from the outset. The French Gauloises made a strong start having kicked two straight to Australia’s four points at quarter time. After coach Justin Clarke’s ask for higher intensity, he got exactly what he wanted, making it a one-point game at half time after a fantastic goal from the Aussie skipper Emily Rohr. After another tough battle in the third quarter, under some heavy rain, it was three points to the way of the Spirit heading into the final 12 minutes. Goals were flowing and both sides continued to take their opportunities. After scrambling to a 17-point lead midway through the fourth, France pinned the margin back to 11. However, it was too little too late for the Gauloises, and the away side Australian Spirit, were able to take home the Anzac cup in 2023. To all the players credit, the game was played in fantastic spirit in conditions that suited to nobody.

Next up was the Men’s clash and the French Coq’s were eager to make amends for last year’s two point defeat. This is exactly what transpired, and the Coq’s kicked five goals to one in the first. Belief was present in the Aussie camp, and a much better second quarter only saw a 24-point deficit heading into the main break. French captain Nicolas Boché was constantly in and around the footy, with his on-field leadership also a key part in the Coq’s dominance. After half-time, the trend of French dominance continued, and the game soon fell out of the Australian’s hands. With a 10 goal to one quarter, the Coq’s lead extended to 79 at 3QT. The home side clearly had unfinished business going on from the 2022 memories, inspiring them to a 160-50 victory over the travelling side. There was plenty of disappointment in the Australian Spirit side, who knew they were capable of a better showing. In saying this, the strength and character showed by the entire Coq’s side was wonderful viewing for the locals who had turned out to watch, and to beat that side would’ve been no easy feat from the beginning.

Monday was spent travelling the fields and towns which had seen battle during World War 1. It was a sobering experience for all as we walked the trenches and cemeteries that marked the region. It was a stark reminder of the true reason why these Australian representatives had travelled to Villers-Bretonneux. The day was spent learning about the history of those who had come before us, and all in attendance were filled with pride at how well our Australian soldiers are continued to be valued by the locals.

The Dawn Service at the Australian National Memorial in Villers-Bretonneux was the final part of the trip. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event for most, with each player having personal connections to the Anzac spirit making the ceremony even more special. After the moving service, players were given the chance to walk through the Sir John Monash Centre, which finished off the emotional weekend.

We would like to express a massive thank-you to our French liaison and President of the ABA, Xavier Graux, Bugle Player Sergeant Danny Dielkens, the French national women’s and men’s Aussie rules sides, the members of the Australian Spirit squads, our umpires and the many volunteers who assisted across the four days. Without you all involved, the weekend doesn’t go ahead, and we are incredibly grateful for your time. The strength between the Australian and French in Villers-Bretonneux continues to grow year on year, and we look forward to seeing how the event transpires in 2024.

  • Sam Briggs, AFL Europe