HAVE you ever thought about trying AFL, but didn’t understand all the rules or had the time to commit to all the training involved? Well, now you can with a brand new Mixed AFL 9’s program starting in Bathurst soon.
AFL 9’s is a social, touch or tag only version of AFL Football. It is played outdoors on a rectangular field and requires the usual AFL skills, minus the tackling. You can kick goals, lay off a quick handball and take a diving mark.
It's a fast, free-flowing game. Best of all, it's 'touch/tag football' with no tackling or bumping, making it suitable for people of any age or skill level. Importantly, AFL 9s is easy to play, not too physically demanding and provides an environment where fun, enjoyment and safety are a priority.
Fundamentally, AFL 9s enables people of all ages and ability levels to participate in male, female or mixed competitions that fit around their busy lives and provide a social and fitness outlet.
The game is played between two teams of nine (9) with interchange players. The field has a maximum length of 100 metres (which can be modified depending on the age and ability level of participants) and is divided into three zones: a mid zone and two scoring zones.
Teams score by kicking the football into their attacking scoring zone to designated forwards who are the only players permitted to score. A mark is awarded irrespective of the distance the ball has travelled.
The easiest way to play is to get 9 people together and register your team. We do endeavour to help individual players get a kick if they don’t have a team to play with. AFL 9’s has unlimited interchanges. Having a few people unavailable for a few matches is inevitable, so the perfect number of players for a premiership winning AFL 9s team is 12. This ensures you will always have a full side.
If you are short on players you can bring along fill-ins! Everyone looks forward to their weekly game of AFL 9s so we try and do whatever we can to get a game going! If you're still struggling the first thing to do is contact your AFL 9s Program Manager ASAP.
AFL 9’s programs are covered by insurance. If your team is registered and paid up then your players are covered. In the event of you needing to make a claim just let your program manager know and they will guide you through the process.
An AFL 9’s program will run in Bathurst on Friday evenings from February 15 to March 22. Times may vary, but the aim is for a 7pm start. The cost is just $5 per player each week. To register as a team or individual player, please contact Peter Yandle, Regional Coordinator, AFL NSW/ACT on 0403 286 574 or email peter.yandle@aflnswact.com.au by February 8.
If you are new to the game, don’t worry. AFL 9’s is a social game that people of all ages and skill levels can play. The Bathurst Bushrangers welcome you to be a part of the fun. If you are an existing Bushrangers player, there are plans to play a more competitive version of the game. This will be discussed further at preseason training.
Last Modified on 25/01/2013 16:02