AUSSIE RULES

The weather in Scotland might not be conducive to it but the sport of Aussie Rules football is heading to Stirling next summer.

AFL Europe has confirmed that one of the feature events on the 2020 European calendar - the nine-a-side Euro Cup - will be held in conjunction with AFL Scotland at Stirling County’s Bridgehaugh ground on June 6.

President of AFL Scotland David Baldie said he was excited to introduce Australian Football to Stirling.

“We can’t wait to bring footy to the locals of Stirling and introduce them to both the sport itself and the AFL Europe community,” said David. “This could be exactly what we need to get a new AFL Scotland club up and running in the area.

“Alongside AFL Europe we’re aiming to put on a great event and ensure everyone has the best experience possible. In what is sure to be an exciting year, we look forward to hosting not only some great games of footy, but also giving everyone a flavour of what Scotland has to offer.”

AFL Europe Events Manager Lily Beck said she was thrilled to announce AFL Scotland as the host nation for the tournament.

“Bridgehaugh is a fantastic venue for this tournament and we know our teams will be thrilled with the overall player experience that Stirling offers,” said Lucy.

Currently six teams play in AFL Scotland - West Lothian Eagles (Linlithgow), Edinburgh Bloods, Glasgow Sharks, Greater Glasgow Giants, Kingdom Kangaroos (Fife) and also Tyne Tee Tigers (Newcastle).

A spokesperson said: “Recently we have seen a growth in numbers, particularly in women’s participants who will have their first official season in 2020.

“The 2019 Euro Cup was held in Norrtajle, Sweden when 16 men’s and eight women’s national teams took part with more than 350 players as well as coaches, team staff, volunteers, umpires, family and friends present.

“We are hoping that we will get a similar response from the Stirling community and potentially launch a club in the local area off the back of the tournament.”.