The Northwind will be going into this year’s International Cup with a special edge.
The coaching team will be joined by Carlton midfielder Dennis Armfield, whose 10 years’ AFL experience will be invaluable for the men’s national team.
Armfield said he relished the opportunity to help grow the game and practise his coaching skills.
“I'm looking forward to a lot to be honest,” Armfield said.
“Learning more coaching techniques and having the ability to share my knowledge with both Canadian players and coaches – being involved in the IC competition as a whole to see how the AFL is expanding in other countries.
“I hope I can bring experience to both players and coaches. I also hope I can bring a few tricks to make it easier for the players (both men and women).”
Armfield will also be training with Melbourne-based players in the lead up to the tournament.
Northwind head coach Cody Royle said Armfield’s knowledge of the sport would be priceless for the players.
“Armfield was elevated into Carlton's leadership group this year, so any exposure we have to him will be worth its weight in gold,” Royle said.
“He's been used as a utility throughout his career so he's going to be able to talk to all three position groups and impart his experience onto them.
“He's been incredible to deal with and we're extremely thankful that he reached out to us.”
Armfield approached AFL head office earlier this year to expand his knowledge and give back to the football community.
He leapt at the opportunity to grow the game internationally and take it to as many people as possible.
“Every child's dream is to one day represent their country and if the game grows, it will provide this opportunity for more people worldwide,” he said.
“It also helps AFL become a global game and exposes many different talented people to our game which in the end could draw better talent to our game ultimately improving AFL here in Australia. “The game is now made of many different nationalities/cultures and this is only providing more idols for young kids to aspire to be and creating pathways.”
Last Modified on 22/02/2019 15:38