AFL Canada is excited to announce that Halifax, Nova Scotia has been selected as the host city for the 2026 AFL Canada Club Championships.
The tournament, which will combine the Men’s and Women’s+ competitions into a single weekend for the first time, will be held at the Halifax Commons on October 3rd and 4th.
“Footy is booming on the east coast, and AFL Atlantic is one of the fastest growing leagues in the country,” said Greg Bridges, Executive Director of AFL Canada. “Hosting the 2026 Club Championships in Halifax will be a celebration of this success so far, and will leave a legacy of growth and development in the region for years to come.”
The 2026 AFL Canada Club Championships will feature the best Men’s and Women’s+ Clubs from across Canada, with more than 200 athletes, coaches, and volunteers expected to take part.
It builds on the success of the annual AFL Canada Cup, the National Women’s+ tournament most recently held in Calgary, Alberta, and the inaugural 2025 AFL Canada Men’s Club Championships held in Toronto, Ontario last year.
“Footy in the Atlantic is fueled by strong club leadership, a welcoming and inclusive culture, and a passionate volunteer base,” said Jonah Scott, Development Manager for AFL Atlantic and the Halifax Dockers and Head of the Tournament Organizing Committee. “AFL Atlantic is proud to welcome the national footy community to Halifax and to support the future of the sport across Canada.”
Halifax is known for its warmth, walkability, and genuine hospitality. The Halifax Commons offers easy access to downtown hotels, restaurants, and attractions, allowing participants to experience everything the city has to offer while visiting for the tournament.
“Major tournaments like the Club Championships are a key part of our strategy to grow footy and increase participation at the club level in Canada,” said David Smith, Chair of AFL Canada. “The 2026 edition promises to be bigger than ever, and will bring together the entire footy community for one incredible weekend.”
The decision to award the tournament to Halifax and AFL Atlantic follows a Call-For-Proposals sent out earlier this year. The AFL Canada Board of Directors reviewed the bids and unanimously approved the decision at the most recent Board Meeting.
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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.
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