Winter might be the off-season for the majority of clubs in Canada but for a few regions, founding members are hard at work ensuring everything’s aligned to hit the ground running in 2023 for their new clubs.
Four clubs in different pockets of the country are emerging thanks to the hard work of those early members. All had different operations this year, looking for a big period of growth in 2023.
Here’s a little about each emerging club below:
Windsor Essex Bulldogs (AFL Ontario):
- The Bulldogs already have a home field set up and are looking into goalposts as we speak!
- With a few practices under their belt already in 2022 with 30+ at each practice, they’re looking to really build and compete in 2023.
- If you’re in the Windsor-Essex area and interested in heading out for a kick, you can email Aaron, the Club President at a.dvernychuk@hotmail.com.
Saint John, NB (AFL New Brunswick)
- The Saint John Team got a few kicks this year, as well as an AFL Grand Final viewing party.
- 2023 has been identified as the year things really kick off and potentially even joining in on some of the AFL Nova Scotia games across the year.
- If you’re in the St John area and want to check out the action at the Australian Football in New Brunswick Facebook page
Alberni Valley (AFL British Columbia)
- 2022 saw 6 (!) training sessions for the newest Footy team on Vancouver Island, as well as wider BC.
- Coached by a former Quebecer and Northwind Rep – means you’re getting some quality coaching in!
- In the area and want to get out for a kick? Head to the Alberni Valley AFL Facebook Page
Kingston Saints AFC (AFL Ontario)
- The Kingston Footy club had solid operations underway prior to the covid 19 pandemic but a 2-year halt in play saw things fall a little flat.
- 2 fall kickarounds saw a solid group get together to learn a bit more about the game and kickstart things ready for 2023!
- The Saints now have a partnership with the local Gaelic club to get some dome sessions going across the winter.
- In Kingston and want to go for a kick? Head to the Kingston Footy page on Facebook.
Can’t find a footy club in your area? Why not start one?
AFL Canada has the resources to assist you in building a strong sustainable club, including the New Club Grant. Reach out to development@aflcanada.com to start the conversation.
