AFL begins new Tamworth competition

This article first appeared in the Northern Daily Leader.

AUSTRALIAN Rules begins a new competition in Tamworth.

Tamworth Swans Australian Rules Football Club president Josh McKenzie, said support from local high schools had been encouraging in setting up the modified competition catering for young players up to Year 10.

He said three local high schools will play a preseason competition of compromised AFL rules at Scully Park 2.

“The first year of the Cup will be fought out between Farrer MAHS, Oxley High School and McCarthy Catholic College,” Josh McKenzie said.

“Games will be played on a rectangular field, with nine a side and rules similar to those used in AFL 9s. Contact is limited to genuine contests at the ball to try and give newcomers a feel for the game. The game uses lighter balls, and is designed essentially to test their skills in kicking, handballing and marking, as wayward passes see the ball turned over.”

He said students from schools “outside of those mentioned will be catered for if they are interested in participating”.