World youth squads announced

The World XVIII and South Pacific squads have been named for the June 2010 NAB AFL Under 16 championships in Australia. This is the first time international squads have been invited to compete and although the inaugural teams are likely to be in for a torrid time on the scoreboard, in coming years the concept should provide an excellent pathway to the AFL as well as an incentive for international leagues to promote youth.

The players named have been selected but have not necessarily confirmed their involvement, as it will be subject to players making the journey Down Under. The full lists are given below. Including the multi-cultural component, there are 21 countries represented.

The AFL's National Participation Manager, Josh Vanderloo, is particularly involved with the World side and explained that "The World XVIII selection process took place from January to April and considered in excess of 60 players either nominated from AFL International affiliates or local migrants that have lived in Australia for less than 5 years. The result is a squad of players selected that will represent such diverse nations as South Africa, United States, Sudan, Canada, England and Ireland to name just a few. There are still 4 places available in the World XVIII squad which will be filled over the next month".

AFL Asia Pacific Manager Andrew Cadzow explained that the South Pacific squad will be reduced further in the lead up to the tournament. "The initial South Pacific Squad was selected after the 2009 Oceania Championships (held in Fiji) and included 52 players. Through consultation with key stakeholders across all Pacific nations, the squad has been trimmed to 33 (including possible emergencies) with further cuts required given that only 25 players can be part of the final team.

A full media launch will occur around Round 10 of the AFL season.