Swans to play in first NZ match

The St Kilda home game will played on Anzac Day at Westpac Stadium in Wellington, New Zealand.

The game will be broadcast live to Australia and will feature before Anzac Day’s traditional clash at the MCG between Collingwood and Essendon.

Sydney Swans Chief Executive Andrew Ireland said the Club was excited to be part of the first international AFL game played for premiership points.

“This will be a historic match for the AFL competition and it is exciting that the Club can be a part of it,” Mr Ireland said.

“Never before has a premiership season match been played overseas, so this is a really unique opportunity.

“ANZAC Day is a hugely significant day for both Australia and New Zealand, and to be playing Australia’s game on New Zealand soil will be a great tribute.”

With the Swans already boasting strong links internationally, Mr Ireland said next year’s game would be another opportunity to extend the reach of our great game.

“As a Club we have always been open to the AFL reaching out beyond Australia’s shores,” he said.

“At times this year, our forward line has comprised Irishman Tommy Walsh standing alongside Canadian Mike Pyke.”

“A premiership match in New Zealand is another great opportunity to promote the game, and our Club, to a new audience.”

The last time the Swans played outside of Australia was in a pre-season match in Los Angeles against North Melbourne in 2006.

The Saints have been negotiating with the AFL and the Wellington City Council for months to arrange the match.

The initial agreement is that St Kilda will host five games at Westpac Stadium over the next three years.

St Kilda Chief Executive Officer Michael Nettlefold said the groundbreaking initiative had only come about because of the benefits for all concerned.

“From the outset, the Wellington City Council has shared our vision and can see the unique opportunities this partnership presents for all parties,” he said.

Westpac Stadium is home to the city’s A-League team, the Wellington Phoenix, and also hosts Super 15 side, the Wellington Hurricanes.

The Westpac Stadium playing surface is 152 metres goal to goal, which is slightly longer than the SCG, and is as wide as Etihad Stadium.