Hawks & Blues commit to Rec Footy

Monday, 21st April 2008

The 2008 OAFL Recreational footy league has been given a huge boost with both the Broadview Hawks and Central Blues indicating they have over 40 players currently training and willing to support both the senior and recreational sides.  With the first of the hour long games set to commence on May 10th, this concept has began to build momentum through out the early pre-season and now looks to the future with increasing certainty.

Rec Footy is designed to give an opportunity to everyone associated with the OAFL, regardless of which team you are associated with, the chance to play footy that fits around the individual’s schedule.  Teams will be comprised of players from all 10 member clubs who will combine and play under modified rules on the scheduled dates.

Described as “A big step in the right direction to grow the league” by the League Vice-President Jonathon Barlow, the 5 matches set aside for games may need to be extended depending on the support the competition receives during the early stage of the season. “With the start of Rec Footy we can ensure that all players in the league can come out every second weekend and play footy. As teams lists grow and more players become interested in participating, the league needs to ensure we have the structure in place to ensure that even people who are not able to commit to the sometimes rigorous schedule of representing a club can get involved and enjoy our great game”

The OAFL Executive is looking to have every club in the league follow suite by putting a side in the Rec Footy over the next 2-3 years and to build the numbers participating to equal those of the current regular season. With Emile Studham beginning the junior program this year, Rec Footy will also be an avenue to teach young players how to play the game and sharpen their skills before moving into the senior teams.

Central Blues President Rob Chapman commented, “Our club numbers have grown steadily over the off-season and pre-season and the Rec league is going to be a great opportunity for us to get all of our players plenty of playing time” he said “In only the Blues 3rd season we hope entering a second squad becomes a big step in our development and our goal of being a serious competitor in the OAFL”

Further information about the Rec Footy schedule and games can be found on the OAFL website or by contacting Danny Walker at dwalker@aflcanada.com