About AFL Canada
AFL Canada is the AFL-sanctioned National Governing Body committed to promoting, growing, and developing the sport of Australian Football in Canada. Since 1989, AFL Canada has supported clubs, leagues, and provincial associations through program development, resources, national and international tournaments, marketing, youth programs, and other strategic initiatives.
As the recognized AFL International Affiliate, AFL Canada is motivated to ensure the game can prosper and progress through all formats, levels, and competitions across the country.
AFL Canada supports clubs, leagues, and provincial associations with:
- Program development for players, umpires, coaches, and other volunteers
- Sport specific insurance coverage for registered participants and Member Clubs
- Financial support and club development resources for new and existing clubs
- Access to grants for strategic initiatives that align with AFL Canada’s objectives
- Marketing, communication and promotion of the sport of Australian Football within Canada
- Access to discounted footballs and other equipment
- High performance athlete development opportunities
Coach and Umpire professional development opportunities - Guidance and support on application of international Laws of the Game
- National and International advocacy and linkages with other governing sport bodies, and other Australian Football associations world-wide
- Junior, youth, and school development programs
Team Canada Northern Lights at the International Cup in Melbourne, Australia in 2014, pictured here at Etihad Stadium ahead of the Grand Final. The Northern Lights defeated Ireland to be crowned International Champions.
High Performance
AFL Canada oversees the National High Performance Program and supports the growth of international footy. Through participation in major international tournaments, including the AFL International Cup, AFL Transatlantic Cup, and other events, AFL Canada provides High Performance athletes with opportunities to represent their country on the world stage.
Association Governance
AFL Canada is incorporated under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act (CCA-II), and is a Registered Canadian Amateur Athletic Association (RCAAA). AFL Canada Members elect a volunteer Board of Directors to ensure effective governance, financial management, and safe sport.
AFL Canada is the recognized International Affiliate of the AFL and works in consultation with the AFL to develop Australian Football in Canada.
Strategic Direction
AFL Canada’s Board of Directors, in conjunction with key stakeholders such as Sport Canada and the AFL, have set out the strategic direction of the organization moving forward.
The Priority Areas and Initiatives were developed based on feedback from members and outlined by the Board of Directors during an in-person strategy meeting.
You can access the full strategic document at below.
Association History
The Canadian Australian Football Association was established in May 1989 when two clubs, the Mississauga Mustangs and the Toronto Panthers were formed and played in the inaugural Conacher Cup game in Toronto, Ontario. Since then, the game of Australian football in Canada has expanded considerably nationwide.
AFL Canada was formed as governing body on 30 July 2004, when the Canadian Australian Football League changed its official name.
Today, AFL Canada has Member Clubs in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Participation in the sport continues to grow, with Men’s, Women’s, Junior, School, and Adaptive footy being played across the country. Formats range from full-field 18-aside competitions to small-field 9-aside leagues, winter indoor footy, non-contact social leagues, and youth development programs.
AFL Canada hosts National Men’s and Women’s Club tournaments, and sends National Teams to international competitions.
Provincial Associations
