The day began with an exhibition match between a metro team and a team from outside of Toronto, with the metro squad too strong in the end to the tune of 97 points. That was then followed by a junior match with students from Red Willow public school in Brampton. This was a success as the kids soaked up the chance to learn the skills of the game on a League oval in front of a big crowd. With a junior program in the works for next season, we may see these kids playing in the OAFL before too long. It was then time for the big match, and after opening speeches from representatives from League sponsors Crown Point (Martin Walter) and the Trillium Foundation (Vincent Conville), as well as the Canadian National Anthem, the game got under way.

Like they have done most of the season, Toronto jumped out of the blocks and kicked 4 goals before Etobicoke knew what hit them. It wasn't just the forwards firing for the Eagles though, as the defence kept the Roos to just one point at quarter time. For the rest of the first half the Roos were playing catch up, and despite kicking their first goal and holding the Eagles to only 1 themselves, the margin was still 25 points at the main break.

Within minutes of the re-start, Eagles star Troy Marsh was issued a yellow card after a heavy collision with an opponent which sent him from the field for the rest of the game. This added drama to an already intriguing story line, and the Roos seized the momentum as they continually propelled the ball forward, only to see it come straight back out thanks to the mighty Eagles defenders. It was obvious the Kangaroos were wearing their opponents down through their physical play, and finally they were able to string a couple of goals together, bringing the margin under two goals.

Now it was anyone's game to win and Etobicoke refused to release the pressure they were applying. Ruckman Manny Matata threw himself at the contest time and time again and then it was left to playing-coach Emile Studham to become the hero. After being beaten most of the day by Grand Final MVP Tasos Dimacakos, Studham was influential in the dying stages, kicking a crucial goal and then being the man with the ball in his hands 50 metres from goal with a minute to play, scores tied. His kicked sailed long and just cleared the behind line to register a point, giving the Roos their first lead of the day with less than a minute to play. It was bedlam on the sidelines as every possession was heart-in-your-mouth sort of stuff for the over 600 strong supporters. The Eagles made one last ditch effort to score, bringing the ball from defence to their half forward line. But time was to be their enemy and the siren sounded and jubilation set in for all involved in the Etobicoke club. The dream of a three-peat was over for the Toronto Eagles.

This game will be forever remembered for the classic it was, and capped off a mightily successful season which included Canada's National team, Northwind, achieving their greatest ever result at the International Cup in Melbourne. With the financial help of a number of League sponsors, the game continues to grow throughout Ontario and next season already looks promising for a number of clubs and the league as a whole.

After their shock loss last weekend to the Kangaroos, the Eagles came out a more focused group and were determined to not go out of the finals in straight sets. The game was all but over at quarter time with Toronto leading by 30 points. The next three quarters were a lot more even as Broadview started to be more attacking at the ball, but they could never get close enough to really threaten on the scoreboard. Tarquin Netherway was the standout up forward for the winners with 4 goals, while Lachlan McDonald kicked 3.

All attention now turns to the Grand Final which promises to be a tremendous event, this year being hosted by the Etobicoke club on their home ground, Humber College's South Campus in Toronto. Festivities kick off at 11 am with the main game to be played at 2 pm. All our league sponsors and the media are invited to attend this big day, and family and friends are always welcome.

Download the Grand Final poster for details.

Northwind General Manager, and Broadview Hawks head coach, Martin Walter was beaming with pride as two of his players accepted their awards last night at the AFL International Cup Gala in Melbourne. The players received their Team jerseys from Australian football legends Kevin Sheedy & Ron Barassi.

Coach Mark Block had only praise for his players after the match, knowing they had given their all over the past two weeks. Both Block & Walter deserve a lot of credit for the Northwind efforts in this year's International Cup, having created a real team environment over the past few months, where all players played for each other and the jersey every time they took to the field.

Team Canada was one of the most professional squads of all the 16 teams competing in the International Cup, with another reason being their Team Manager Helga Cunning, who worked tirelessly to give the team every opportunity to enjoy this experience and get the best out of themselves.

The Canadian squad heads for home on Sunday knowing they have put their country on the AFL's radar after a strong showing here in Melbourne. With a junior program in full development in Vancouver, The Northwind is positively looking to the future as the program now reaches it's most exciting stage in its history. Canada has moved up in the rankings and unleashed some new talent to the team that should carry this group forward for many years to come.

Captain Stefan Leyhane, who has been the backbone of the squad for many years, was chaired from the ground after the match, the players appreciating his efforts for the program over a long period of time.

The final score was Northwind 7.7.49 to Nauru 12.8.80

Goal kickers for Canada: Scott Fleming 2, James Maitland 1, Chris Buczkowski 1, Murray Lovett 1, Mario Pareja 1, Chris Cunning 1

Best players: Kevin Minaker, Frank Luisser, Mario Pareja, Matthew Lowden, Scott Fleming, Andrew Garth, Tasos Dimacakos, James Maitland, Stefan Leyhane, Dale Simnett, Rhys Harris, Manny Matata

Reported By Daniel Eddy

On a cold and blustery day in the western districts town of Warrnambool, it was the Northwind who blew strongest, out-muscling the smaller Japanese team and running out winners by 41 points. The victory over Japan has ensured that Canada will have its highest ever world ranking, with a play-off for 5th spot to be held on Friday in Melbourne.

Combined with great shutdown efforts from the Broadview Hawks' Rhys Harris and Central Blue Jacob Sone, Canada’s defence was outstanding all day long, ensuring Japan became the third team this tournament to not register a goal against the Northwind.

Japan's only real goal scoring chance came at the end of the first quarter when a set shot from the goalsquare was brilliantly smothered by Lowden, ruining any hope the Samurais had of registering a goal and getting back in the match.

For the third straight game the big Etobicoke Kangaroo, Manny Matata, was outstanding in the ruck, constantly beating his opponents and punching the ball forward. Danny McIlravey came off the bench and instantly had an impact in the centre of the ground with his strength in the packs causing a few concerns for the Japan boys.

Toronto Eagle Kevin Minaker found plenty of the ball and Andrew Garth continued on from his great game against Ireland. George Dimacakos handled the ball well in the cold weather and Mario Pareja played his best game of the tournament.

Other top contributors over the day were West Coast Saint, James Maitland who ran and ran all day long, Scotty Fleming with two important goals and Murray Lovett who kicked two brilliant goals just when his team needed them.

With one match remaining, Canada is now assured of a spot in the top 6 for the first time in their history. With the USA losing today to Nauru, Canada is now the number one Australian football team in North America.

The final score was Northwind 6.8.44 to Japan 0.3.3

Goal kickers for Canada: Scott Fleming 2, Murray Lovett 2, Aaron Falcioni 1, Chris Buczkowski 1

Best players: Tasos Dimacakos, Rhys Harris, James Maitland, Matthew Lowden, Murray Lovett, Manny Matata, Danny McIlravey, George Dimacakos, Andrew Garth, Jacob Sone, Scott Fleming

Reported By Daniel Eddy

From the outset it was clear that the Irish side was using the conditions better, and their experience was showing as they constantly moved the football forward, only to have it rebounded by full back Matthew Lowden as the back-line worked overtime to hold the Irish at bay.

Tall utility Oliver Hayward scored the Northwind's first goal and this was followed up by another from young Scott Fleming, as Canada pulled the margin back to 8 points at the main break. The tackling from Toronto Eagle Tasos Dimacakos, his brother George and ruckman Manny Matata, kept the Irish from moving the ball with any freedom into their attacking half.

Matata's physical presence around the ground, along with Frank Luisser's strength over the ball allowed the Northwind to remain in touch going in to the final quarter.

Toronto Eagle Andrew Garth played well all day, as did wingman Kevin Minaker, whose run was important in the boggy conditions. Danny McIlravey, Daniel Zimmerman, Sean Kennedy and James Maitland played hard, and Guelph Gargoyles' forward Greg Logel, who was returning from injury, got his hands on the ball on a few occasions.

Key forward Aaron Falcioni covered plenty of ground and worked hard to provide a target up forward, but Ireland was too strong in the end, winning by 16 points. To further dampen the day, key forward Adam Jacobs limped off with a serious knee injury.

The Northwind now look forward to their next match against Japan on Wednesday, with the winner moving through to the Grand Final of the second division. If the Canadians can win that match, they are assured of their greatest ever finish in the International Cup.

With a young side, and a junior team, The Wolfpack, coming through the ranks, the future looks very promising for the Northwind program going forward.

The final score was Northwind 2.2.14 to Ireland 4.6.30

Goal kickers for Canada: Oliver Hayward 1, Scott Fleming 1

Best players: Andrew Garth, Aaron Falcioni, Matthew Lowden, Kevin Minaker, Manny Matata, Tasos Dimacakos, Oliver Hayward, James Maitland, Sean Kennedy, George Dimacakos, Frank Luisser, Daniel Zimmerman

Reported by Daniel Eddy

After the National Anthems from the two countries were played, it was Sweden who came out and set the tone, taking the ball inside their 50 metre zone on four occasions before the boys from Canada started to get into gear.

If not for some strong defensive work from team captain, Stefan Leyhane and small defender Steve Carew, the Swedes may well have registered a couple of goals.

In the second term, Sweden kicked their first and only goal of the match, but big forward Chris Buczkowski kicked 2 of his 3 goals for the day as Canada took a 41 point lead in to half time. In the second half all the Wind came from the North, as the boys in red and white piled on 9 goals to none to runaway with another 100 point victory.

The star up forward was undoubtedly young gun Scott Fleming who kicked 8.3, and was unstoppable whenever the ball was kicked in his area. Scott's strong leading and marking as well as his willingness to give off to teammates in better positions was a major reason why Canada looked potent every time the ball went forward.

Teaming with vice-captain Aaron Falcione, who controlled the attacking half, the Northwind forwards were virtually unplayable when the ball was kicked to their advantage.

In the midfield, rover Danny McIlravey gave Sweden a tough time all day, playing with a strong determination and desire to be first at the ball and to get the ball moving as quickly as possible.

Manny Matata, playing his first game of the tournament controlled the centre square, easily winning the hitouts against an opponent 2-foot taller than him and proving a menace at ground level with his strength over the ball making one or more of his opponents think twice before diving on the football.

When the ball did enter the Swedish half of the ground, centre half back Tasos Dimacakos and his lieutenants played the footy on their own terms, constantly making switches in play to find an open teammate on the opposite side of the ground, which more often than not set up a scoring opportunity down the other end.

The only sour note for Canada was the injury to back pocket Steve Carew, who had to leave the ground with an injured shoulder. Despite the seriousness of the injury he should be alright to take on Ireland in a few days time.

The final score was the Northwind 16.12.108 to Sweden 1.1.7

Goal kickers for Canada: Scott Fleming 8, Chris Buczkowski 3, Aaron Falcione 2, James Maitland 1, Danny McIlravey 1, Clayton Holmes 1

Best players: Scott Fleming, Aaron Falcione, Danny McIlravey, Tasos Dimacakos, Manny Matata, Frank Luisser

Reported by Daniel Eddy

After months of training and preparation for this event, Canada's national team dominated from start to finish against their inexperienced opponents, taking full advantage of some perfect conditions at Royal Park in inner Melbourne.

The High Park Demons' Dale Simnett was brilliant in the ruck, really setting the tone for the team from the first bounce with a dominant display around the ground.

His onballers, led by George Dimacakos who was playing his first game since breaking his ribs 7 weeks earlier, were everywhere and continually pumped the Northwind inside their attacking half of the ground where Cunning & Fleming were dominating their opponents.

Another who played a key role was small forward Murray Lovett who kicked the team's first goal and provided a much needed spark all day long.

Team vice-captain Aaron Falcione played a pivotal role at Centre Half Forward, providing a focal point every time the ball entered the Canadian 50 metre zone. His creativity and willingness to involve his teammates in each and every play allowed the Canadians to be dangerous from all positions.

Vancouver's James Maitland was also a dominate force up forward and on the wing, with his height and athleticism proving too good a match for the inexperienced Finnish players. James is going to prove a headache for all teams in the tournament with his size and mobility.

Captain Stefan Leyhane played like the respected leader he is, not giving Finland any chance to make a drive forward.

In front of a large crowd which had assembled to cheer on the Northwind team, the highlight of the game was the superb running goal from full back Matthew Lowden who charged through the centre of the ground and drilled a long goal from 50 metres out which inspired his teammates and drew a huge roar from everyone watching on.

Despite some inaccurate kicking the coaching staff were very happy with today's performance and are excited for what the team can produce in their next match v Sweden. The Swedes were defeated by Ireland today in their group match but are sure to provide some tough opposition come Friday.

The final score was:

Northwind 18.22.130 defeated Finland 0.0.0

Goal kickers for Canada: Chris Cunning 6, Scott Fleming 4, Murray Lovett 1, James Maitland 1, Aaron Falcione 1, George Dimacakos 1, Danny McIlravey 1, Matty Lowden 1, Rhys Harris 1, Clayton Holmes 1

Best players: All-round team performance by all 24 players.

Reported by Daniel Eddy

Here's a sneak peek at what to expect, and I'll stick my neck out to venture predictions, although admittedly some of the sides are yet to be seen in international action.

The 16 sides have been seeded into 4 pools of 4, and in Round 1 some of the game's minnows face the power of more established footy nations. There are three times slots for the matches, with three games at 11:00am, three at 1:00pm and two at 3:00pm.

Entry is free and the Melbourne public are encouraged to come down, pick their favourite team and help celebrate amateur Australian football from around the world.

First up at 11:00am on McAlister Oval is Ireland looking to start strongly against debutantes Sweden. The Irish Warriors are amongst the favourites and their running, skilful game should be far too much for the Swedish Elks, but being their first game and spirits high, they may hang in there for a while. But the predicted fine conditions should see the better side run away. Tip: Ireland by 70 points.

Next door at Ransford Oval the reigning champs New Zealand should find spirited opposition from the Japanese team. The Samurai will be quick and skilful, but in lacking key position size against strong tackling, disciplined, tall opponents, will find it hard to stem the flow. Tip: New Zealand by 70 points.

Also in the same slot, at adjacent Western Oval, Canada will look to start 2008's Cup much more impressively than 2005. Back then they were struck down by injuries before the tournament started and did not manage a win until late in the event. This time they face the enthusiastic debutantes from Finland, and over the journey the Northwind should pull away from the Finns. Tip: Canada by 70 points.

At 1:00pm the next group of matches get underway, with McAlister hosting Samoa battling another debut team in India. This should tell us a lot about both squads. The islanders have in the past had healthy numbers from players then playing in Victorian competitions, but tighter eligibility rule interpretation may have weakened them. On the other hand India have yet to see battle against any team (other than a trial match against China this week), but do have some eligible locals boosting their stocks, so this match could be far more competitive than expected at first glance. Tip: Samoa by 45 points.

At Ransford we see Great Britain take on unknown quantity the Peace Team, comprising Israeli and Palestinian players. A bit like the previous match, the nation with a longer football history may appear easy favourites over a debut side, but word out of the Middle East was that the Peace Team defeated Aussie expats in some exhibition matches before heading Down Under, where they have since had another win over a local side. So a competitive match could be on the cards, but the Bulldogs should be too hungry. Tip: Great Britain by 40 points.

Western Oval hosts possibly the must-see match of the round. The third seeded USA play the Denmark Vikings, who haven't been seen at the Cup since they plundered their way to fourth in 2002. Since then they've played some good matches against European neighbours and this year much of the squad competed in the Danish league as a single team, gaining invaluable experience working together, something the US Revolution has had much less chance to do. If there is to be an upset in Round 1 this could be it, but the Americans will be hitting in hard to put down any challenge. Tip: United States by 30 points.

Two matches at 3:00pm complete the biggest ever day in international Australian football (but with more to come in the next 9 days). At McAlister the rising talents of South Africa's Lions play China's team who are making their first appearance. Expect a fast game which will suit the Lions who will flex their growing strength, despite the Red Demons boasting some very talented athletes. Tip: South Africa by 50 points.

Finally to what could be a very entertaining, slick game of football, as one of the tournament favourites, Papua New Guinea, take on Nauru, returning for their second Cup after missing in 2005. With many players coming to Australia early to get experience in Victorian leagues, the Nauru Chiefs will be worthy opponents. But PNG are likely to be red hot with so many young guns on scholarships in Queensland, and a warm-up match against Coolangatta shaking out some of the kinks from not regularly playing as one team. This game should see very slick ball movement. Tip: PNG by 50 points.

Courtesy worldfootynews.com
]]> http://aflcanada.com/news/2008/08/16_nations_about_to_do_battle.php http://aflcanada.com/news/2008/08/16_nations_about_to_do_battle.php 2008 International Cup 2008-08-26T14:06:21-05:00 Canada's Northwind likes its chances as it enters into its final preparation for the 2008 International Cup. Speaking from Toronto, Northwind's General Manager Martin Walter commented that the team's management is very comfortable with where the team has been drawn. In a recent interview he commented "We have Finland up first on August 27th and we are now totally focused on that game, but at the end of the day, you have to beat them all and we believe we are capable of doing just that."

Canada is bringing a squad of 31 players (view list here) along with ten support staff that have a combination of experience and youth and are the best that AFL Canada has ever brought to Australia. Last year the newly revamped Northwind silenced a lot of critics by beating USA's Revolution in a game in Vancouver.

The Country and Australian football

Canada much like Australia is a geographically vast and ethnically diverse country, with a population of around 33 million people. Canada is a grand mosaic of peoples and traditions, ranging from its indigenous First Nations bands, French and British pioneers, and more recent immigrants from Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Bounded by the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic oceans, Canada is a land of extraordinary natural beauty, with dramatic land and seascapes, and vibrant cosmopolitan cities.

AFL Canada originated in 1989 in Ontario and spread to the west coast of Canada. Australian football has expanded in Canada to include 17 clubs (including a 10-team league in Ontario), a junior development program comprising 14 teams (as well as a junior national side) and a senior national side, the Canadian Northwind.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Canadians' strength is definitely their size and their athletic ability. Due to their sports upbringing most Canadian players find it quite easy to adapt well to the physicality and athleticism involved in Australian Rules football.

Another area of strength is Canada's extremely disciplined backline, many of whom are seasoned footballers not only domestically but internationally as well.

The major weakness for the Canadians, which may be apparent for many other teams competing in the tournament, is their lack of regular international games. The Canadian side have tried to combat this though, by competing regularly against talented All-star sides filled with Australian competing here in Canada. Not having many players that grew up playing the sport is also a drawback shared with many other nations.

Players to watch

With many players having experience playing in domestic leagues in Australia and a good dose of international experience, there are many players to watch for the Canadian side.

Some names to look out for include Scott Flemming (who is currently playing in Australia), Aaron Falcioni (who recently returned to Canada after playing in Australia this year), Tasos and George Dimacakos (the latter was invited to train with the Sydney Swans a few years back) and team captain Stefan Leyhane.

Form Guide

The two previous International Cups weren't too kind to the Canadian team were they really didn't live up to their potential. In 2002, the Northwind finished ninth with only one win out of five matches whilst in 2005 they improved their ranking finishing seventh.

In their last official International game, the Canadians competed against the United States in Vancouver and defeated the Americans for the first time.

Bottom Line

This is a vastly improved and experienced Canadian side which is capable of beating most teams on their day. How Canada will fair in this year's competition may all depend on their last group game against the Irish, win that and they're definitely in contention.

With this in mind they began to explore the opportunity to travel to Australia to play against some local competition and have them see how they need to work hard to improve their game. And with the International Cup and the 150th anniversary happening this year, they also felt that this was the perfect time to bring the first Canadian Junior Team to Australia.

After securing monetary sponsorship from Darrel Lea Australia and Sleep Country Canada, product sponsorship from Darrel Lea, Kellogg's Australia, SPC Ardmona and Sports Unlimited the tour became a reality. The Sydney Swans, Hawthorn Hawks and Tourism Victoria have also lent the Wolfpack support by assisting them whilst they are in Melbourne.

All of the clubs that will be competing against the Wolfpack have also gone out of their way to help make the Canadians have a once in a lifetime experience for their travelling party, which is 52 including parents, players, coaches and siblings. You can view the players list here.

As for how the team is expected to perform, it is clearly understood that the Wolfpack will be up against it yet the team will try their hearts out and not quit. When speaking to coach Mike McFarlane he stated that “They (Wolfpack) are fit and can run all day and I think that some of their skills are going to catch some of the teams by surprise”. McFarlane also stated that “We lack experience playing on a full size field and this will be the weakest aspect of our game but a lot of our kids have been playing against the men in the Vancouver senior competition and this will allow them to compete against the clubs we are matched up against”.

AFL Canada hopes that the competing clubs will walk off the field with respect for their Canadian competition. AFL Canada also hopes that the AFL and its clubs will begin to see Canada as an area to look for kids wanting to come to Australia to play this great game. Hopefully this tour will open people's eyes to another nation that can become a feeder for players.

With Scott Fleming being AFL Canada’s first player from their junior program to move to Australia to concentrate on his footy and doing very well with Broadbeach in Queensland, they hope he is the first of many to follow suit. When discussing this with McFarlane he stated “Quite a few of our kids are already talking about doing the same thing as Scott has done and giving footy a chance. It is in the Canadian make-up to move to further your sports career and this takes one of the hurdles away that is sometimes associated with international players”.

During the trip the Wolfpack will also have an opportunity to view and support their Canadian senior side in the opening round of the International Cup when the Northwind takes on Finland. This will also provide each of the juniors with the unique opportunity to see what they are working towards in their future football careers.

Here's the itinerary for those interested in having a look, and to give some idea of the footy feast the Canadians will be packing into their stay.

Itinerary for the Wolfpack Melbourne Tour 2008

Saturday 16th August .

Arrive Melbourne for most.

Free day - Possibly see Essendon v Adelaide at Telstra Dome or Melbourne v West Coast Eagles at MCG or join Tony Morwood and the group to The Rising Sun Hotel to watch the Sydney Swans v Geelong on the big screen TV for a 7.10 PM start. .

Sunday 17th August .

Free day - Possibly see Richmond v Hawthorn at MCG or Carlton v Kangaroos at Telstra Dome.

Monday 18th August.

Mostly Free day until approx 2.00pm

WOLFPACK FOOTY GAME # 1 - Team Canada Wolfpack vs Ivanhoe (Kew High School) for 4.15pm start

Tuesday 19th August.

Free day.

Coach Jason arrives at 9.30am on NZ7 from Auckland.

Wednesday 20th August.

Free day until approx 5.00pm - 5.30pm Barbeque at Port Melbourne Football Club viewing their training session.

Thursday 21st August.

WOLFPACK FOOTY GAME # 2 - Team Canada Wolfpack vs De La Salle Year 9/10's for 11.00am start, followed by viewing De La Salle 1st 18 team v Clontarf college from Perth (Indigenous Academy team) and followed by supper & drinks for all - transfers provided by the school for 24 players.

Friday 22nd August.

Day visit to the country and Healsville sanctuary for kangaroo feeding and wildlife etc.

WOLFPACK FOOTY GAME # 3 - Team Canada Wolfpack v Healsville for 7.00pm start (under lights).

Saturday 23rd August .

Free day - Although Coach Mike will be going and taking anyone interested to see Port Melbourne vs Collingwood at 2:00 PM Teac Oval.

Possibly seeing Collingwood v Swans at Telstra Dome (night game) for those interested.

Sunday 24th August.

WOLFPACK FOOTY GAME # 4 - Team Canada Wolfpack v Port Colts 10:00am start - Afternoon Coach Jason will be going to see St Kilda v Adelaide at Telstra Dome (day game) 2pm start.

Monday 25th August.

WOLFPACK FOOTY GAME # 5 - Team Canada Wolfpack vs St Bedes College Year 9/10's for 1.30pm start - transport provided by the school again for players, rest need to make own way.

Tuesday 26th August.

Free day .

Wednesday 27th August.

- Seeing INTERNATIONAL CUP Round 1 Game - Team Canada Seniors v Finland at Royal Park North for 11.00am start - no transport provided at this stage.

Coach Jason departs in the evening at 6.55pm on Tiger Airways TT7308 to ADELAIDE at 1855.

Thursday 28th August.

Depart Melbourne for most of the group although a few families are staying until the 29th.

It was hoped the two year international lists would lead to AFL clubs scouting international Aussie Rules players, but young athletes from other codes was always another likely source, though at age 24 it's a surprising decision.

The Swans appear to be targetting him as a ruckman, and will use their experience with former Irish Gaelic footballers Tadhg Kennelly and Brendan Murphy in the art of teaching a player to cross codes (they've also done the same thing with some current players who had Rugby League backgrounds when they were younger).

The move could raise the profile of Australian football in Canada, where, as Pyke explained, it is relatively well known but mainly as "no rules". It could also lift the profile in other countries, and encourage young players that the switch is possible - if he makes it. Note one particular Rugby enthusiast had coined the Mike Pyke Nonchalant Try Scoring Award. And certainly it could make some waves in general Rugby Union circles, not least of all in Sydney where the Rugby League fraternity has been reeling at the "defection" of star player Sonny Bill Williams, early in a new contract, from League in Australia to Union in France.

Read more on the AFL website in Cross-code Canadian joins Swans by Catherine Murphy and Swans take punt on Canadian and can see Canuck in ruck by Tim Morrissey.

Courtesy worldfootynews.com

Allansford are providing their training facilities for the Canadian National team while they are in Warrnambool for their match against Ireland, as well as including the team in the clubs social activities to make the Canadian squad feel right at home in country Victoria.

Everyone associated with the Northwind squad wish to thank the Old Boys and the Allansford Football Club in advance for their generosity and hospitality, and look forward to an exciting and rewarding visit to Australia this August.

Toronto Eagles footballer George Dimacakos has been invited to train with the Swans while they are in LA, having been approached by former Sydney forward Tony Morwood during the banquet celebrating the 2005 International Cup teams. Growing up in Canada, and playing for the Eagles of the Ontario Australian Football League, it was only natural that Dimacakos would be a West Coast Eagles supporter. His favourite team had just lost that heart-breaker four months earlier, and now, here he was running around on the same field as the team that won that memorable game. For a young man who had only ever been to four AFL matches from his one trip to Australia, he could be forgiven for being slightly nervous and over-awed.

Maybe so, but within a short time he was being made to feel a part of the Swans inner circle, especially by Grand Final hero, Leo Barry. Barry made sure that George felt a part of the group, showed interest in his football career and made a lasting impression on George, so much so that by the time his LA adventure was over, he was now a Sydney Swan for life. That career-defining mark with 3 seconds remaining that caused so much anguish for Dimacakos and all Eagles supporters was now to be used as motivation for the rest of his career, and his few days shared with Leo Barry and his teammates would claim a special place in this young Canadian's life.

Canada's national team, Northwind, and the Sydney Swans special relationship began back in 2005 when Greg Everett, coach of the Northwind side at the time, made contact with Sydney General Manager and Team of the Century member Tony Morwood about setting up some sort of agreement between the two clubs for the 2005 International Cup in Melbourne. Everett wanted to align Canada with a major AFL side in Australia, for financial and sponsorship support and also to fast-track his player's knowledge of the game, while giving them a chance to be around a professional football environment. From there, it progressed to Morwood visiting Toronto and being involved in the team's training sessions and final team selections.

This relationship is now the envy of all International Australian Football teams, and will continue in Melbourne this August when the Swans provide memorabilia for auction and fundraising initiatives, tickets so the Northwind players and partners can experience an actual AFL match, as well as other logistical assistance throughout their stay in Melbourne.

Another connection the Swans share with Canadian Football is through a family connection. Mike McFarlane, who had a major role in bringing Australian Football to the Great White North happens to be the cousin of the greatest Swan of them all �" Bob Skilton.

Mike McFarlane was the driving force in setting up and building a junior program in British Columbia. "It has grown from 4 teams and twenty eight players in 2003, to 14 teams, four age groups and over 150 players today. There is also now a junior National team program, of which I am their Head Coach", McFarlane said from his BC home this week. It was McFarlane who got Morwood in touch with Dimacakos and another Canadian youngster from his junior program, Scott Fleming. Both will compete for Canada in the 2008 International Cup.

After finishing 9th in the 2002 International Cup, and 7th in 2005, everyone involved with the Northwind believe that 2008 is the year they will finally crack the final four. A squad of 31 players are making the trip down under, including both George and Scott, and with the help and support from their AFL friends from Sydney, watch for the Canadian National team to create their own lasting impressions this August in Melbourne.

As Sydney push for a top 4 spot of their own approaching September, you can guarantee they'll be keeping an eye on their friends from the across the Pacific.

Emile Studham, after being granted the opportunity to work full time on the project, has spent months working on sponsorships as the Promotions Manager. He has also done a very effective job as Assistant Coach, teaching game strategies and working with the team on skills development.

I can't say I have had to do much more than encourage people do what they do best and steer things in the right direction. Many players worked extra hard on their fitness. Others contributed greatly to raise sponsorship dollars. Three played in Australia, vastly improving their game. Others worked admirably to gain valuable game experience with their home clubs. It is the players that have shown the greatest change in attitude. They don't just take direction and go through motions explained to them. The leadership group work together designing plays and they communicate direction proving their understanding of the game and their desire to win has reached a new level.

Combined with some recent success, the stronger financial situation and a generally positive attitude, the program has attracted more talent, new management and coaching staff. There really won't be any excuses in Melbourne. The world may not know much about the Northwind, but expectations are high to gain respect at the International Cup in 2008.

See the 31 players selected.

The event will feature during the Australian Football 150 year celebrations. Matches will be played in Melbourne from Wednesday August 27 with teams in Warrnambool from Sunday August 31 until Thursday September 4. Two rounds of matches will be played on Reid Oval, Mack Oval and Walter Oval.

Australian Football is played by over 30,000 participants in over 30 countries around the world. This August, over 16 countries will converge in Melbourne and Warrnambool for the third International Cup.

Never before has the Cup hosted this many countries, and the event takes on greater significance this year as Australia celebrates the 150th birthday of its Indigenous game.

Here is the Official 2008 International Cup booklet which can be viewed here