UNEARTHING CANADA'S NEXT AUSSIE RULES FOOTBALL 'CODE-BREAKER'

When Rugby league star-turned Australian Rules footballer Karmichael Hunt runs out onto the field for the Gold Coast Suns in 2011, the eyes of a nation will be scrutinizing his every move, ready to pass judgment that the ‘experiment’ has failed.


That experiment of course is that of a 24-year old Rugby superstar in his prime trading codes to succeed (and cash in) with Aussie Rules. It’s being touted as a brave and bold new move by the Suns. But players switching codes isn’t new in the AFL and certainly not in Aussie rules around the world. Canadian Rugby star Mike Pyke has successfully made the switch earning a regular spot in a top 8 team, Dean Brogan was a former National Basketball League star before pulling on the boots for the Port Adelaide Power and no one can forget the most successful of all ‘code-breakers’ Jim Stynes. The Irish sensation switched from Gaelic football and eventually was awarded Aussie Rules highest individual honour, the Brownlow Medal.

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NEW NORTHWIND COACH ANNOUNCED

Canadian National Team Head Coaches Selected for the 2011 International Campaign


On behalf of the AFL Canada Executive and the National Team Selection Committee, I would like to formerly announce the appointment of Jaye Macumber and Stuart Grills as joint Northwind Head Coaches.

Stuart Grills - Has 24+ years of playing and coaching experience in Australia, Canada and the US. Highly respected across North America, Stuart is one of the most experienced players and coaches in North America with a division one US Nationals title under his belt. He is a founding member of BC Footy and will provide a direct link to the developing group of teenage players itching for a chance to play for Canada.

Jaye Macumber - Celebrated his 2nd year as Toronto Central Blues Coach with an OAFL Grand Final win and awarded OAFL Coach of the year. After a playing career in Australia and then with the Central Blues in Toronto, Jaye has the confidence of the current Northwind squad and is rewarded for being Northwind Assistant Coach since 2009.

The selection committee would like to thank the other applicants and the current Northwind playing squad for their patience during this very important selection. Both Stuart and Jaye have taken some time to consider the commitment required for this position prior to accepting the offer. The AFLC Executive together with the Northwind Management team look forward to a successful 2011 campaign to Australia.

Darrel Perry - AFL Canada President