Williamstown Football Club last night teamed up with the Swedish Elks as they arrived in Melbourne for preparations for the 2011 AFL International Cup. Both sets of players completed a joint training session before the teams shared a BBQ dinner before the Swedish Elks jumper presentation.
The Swedish Elks are aiming for International Cup glory after finishing third in last year’s European Championships. Coach Daniel McClaer is hoping for a top 5 finish from his charges in the competition which features 18 international teams. The Elks are drawn up against New Zealand and India in their opening pool games.
Last night at the Whitten Oval the visiting side had the opportunity to join in Williamstown training and learn some new skills from their Australian hosts. Williamstown senior Coach Peter German took the opportunity to welcome the players to Australia and provide them with some advice ahead of their first match.
After the joint training session both teams had the chance to mingle and share stories over a BBQ dinner before the Swedish team were presented with their jumpers.
Williamstown Football & Development Manager Chris Dixon said it was great his Club could help out and be involved in such a great event as the International Cup. “Tonight was a great chance to lend a hand and assist such a great group of players. The Elks not only share our famous colours but also our enthusiasm for football and I’m sure they’ll perform well in the International Cup.”
“We hope tonight can be the start of a new relationship which can last long into the future. We wish Daniel and the Elks all the best for their first games up in Sydney, and we look forward to catching up with them when they return to Melbourne.”
The Williamstown Football Club were presented with a Swedish Elks jumped signed by the whole playing list as a thank you for their support.
Williamstown coach Peter German will be interviewed on Harf Time on SEN at 12:50pm today, to talk about the clubs top of the ladder clash versus Port Melbourne this Saturday, their Foxtel Cup victory and the clubs support of the charity Ladder this Saturday.
Last Modified on 09/08/2011 11:18