World Footy News

Like the 2014 International Cup, the Northern Lights and the Midnight Suns will compete against the USA Freedom and USA Liberty respectively in the 49th Parallel Cup.

The following is written by Sam Rothwell.

It will be a new look AFL Canada National women’s team that will take the field on August 1st in Fort Lauderdale for the 49th Parallel Cup. From the starting 18 that won a historic 2014 International Cup over Ireland, 13 are due to miss the upcoming game against the USA Freedom. There are four players missing due to playing commitments in Australia, while another nine others will also miss due to a combination of being injured, pregnant or unavailable.  The depth of talent in Canada is sure to be tested.

Nine debutants will be taking the field for the 2015 edition of the Northern Lights. Despite the significant change in personnel, Head Coach Jason Arnold is excited at the challenge ahead.

“We are excited for the players making their debut and have every confidence that they will have an impact” said Arnold “it opens the door for another group of players to step up and claim a place in the team. As we prepare for the International Cup in 2017, it is the perfect time to give an opportunity to those who we believe have a lot of potential.”

Another member of the Lights team who will be on debut will be former AFL Richmond Best and Fairest winner Daniel Jackson, who will be assisting the Northern Lights in various roles.

“Dan spoke to the players before the IC Grand Final last year. He was impressed with the way they approached their football and in particular how they performed in the final. Since relocating to Toronto this year he has got involved with the program in the East with our forward coach Greg Everett. We are thrilled to have someone of Dan’s experience on board and see his appointment as an indication of the respect these players have earned through sheer hard work.”

The Canadian Women’s development team, the Midnight Suns, will see 20 of the 24 players listed on debut against the USA Liberty.

“We are really looking forward to see how this new Suns group gel in Fort Lauderdale. Despite having so many players missing that represented in Australia, selection was still extremely difficult. We are so appreciative of the great job our coaches at club level are doing and their support in assisting us to select these squads.”