Aussie Rules Europe
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Aussie Rules Europe was formed on 8 October, 2005 in London to promote and develop Australian football throughout Europe.
Delegates from 13 countries (Austria, Belgium, Catalonia, Croatia, Czech Republic, England, Finland, France, Germany, Israel, Scotland, Sweden and The Netherlands) signed the founding document, which states:
“We, the signatories to this founding document, believe that Aussie Rules is the world’s greatest game. Sharing the same desire – to see Aussie Rules realise its true potential – we have formed Aussie Rules Europe to grow and develop the sport throughout Europe. We will all work together, on and off the field, to make our vision a reality.”
Aussie Rules Europe is not a governing body. Instead, it is a body to help promote and develop Australian Football in Europe. All stakeholders are invited to share knowledge, information, ideas and experience.
[edit] Countries
Australian Football is currently played in the following European countries:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- England
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Italy
- Montenegro
- Norway
- Scotland
- Spain
- Sweden
- The Netherlands
- Wales
[edit] EU Cup
The inaugural EU Cup took place in London on 9th October 2005. The EU Cup was played under the rules of 9-a-side football (full contact) on fields conforming to standardised Rugby or Soccer dimensions (approx 100m x 65m). The primary intention of the tournament was to showcase Aussie Rules with a reduction in the number of players, held on sporting fields that are readily found in nearly every corner of Europe; without any loss in the excitement, skill or quality of the 18-a-side version of the game. The competing teams were Israel, Catalonia, Germany, Belgium, Austria, England, Sweden Scotland, France and the Netherlands. Belgium defeated Sweden in the grand final.
