International Cup Wrap-up

September 9, 2005 by Mike McFarlane | View Comments (2)

It has been a couple of weeks since the end of the 2005 International Cup and I would like to say a couple of things to wrap up the trip.

First of all, I would like to thank the coaching staff, the management team, the players, the medical staff and all of the wives, girlfriends, parents and supporters that either travelled to Australia or followed us in Canada for all of their efforts in making this the best experience for the National Team so far. I would also like to thank Tony Morwood and the Sydney Swans for going above and beyond when it came to being the best AFL host club any nation was involved with. Thanks also go to all of the other companies and individuals that put in their time, product and effort on behalf of the National Team.

As a team, we did not have the results that we had set for ourselves. But in the overall view of things, we accomplished one thing and that was to prove that we had improved as a football nation and that better things are on the horizon for Canada in the international football community. With the draw that we had, we all have to hold our heads high and know that we scared the teams that we faced. They did not want to come up against Canada again.

We now need to build on all of the progress we have made. The players that particpated in the tournament need to share their experiences with other players on their own teams, with other players in the league, and encourage new athletes to get involved with the national team program. We have to continue to train as a national team and realize that this not only helps Canada but helps your club team. The older players who are thinking of retiring or are retiring, need to think about remaining involved in some capacity, to help take our program further. Your experience is needed to help us continue our growth.

Finally I want everyone involved at the International Cup to know that I am proud of the way all of you carried yourselves while in Australia. The way the Canadians were received was nothing but postive and this all comes down to the way in which each and everyone of you presented yourselves during our stay. All of you made me proud to tell people that I was the President of AFL Canada.

Thanks,

Mike McFarlane
President AFL Canada