Collingwood and the ARFLI joined forces officially in 2009
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On the biggest day on the Irish calendar, St. Patrick’s Day, it is fitting to celebrate the one-year partnership between the Collingwood Football Club and the Australian Football League of Ireland (ARFLI).
When the partnership was agreed upon in 2009, it was the first of its kind to see an AFL club and an International League form a relationship.
The partnership allows for the exchange of intelligence and resources between both parties with the ultimate goal to grow the brand of both entities across in two countries.
The ARFLI was formed in 2000 and now comprises of eight teams including the newly formed Midwest Magpies which Collingwood supports through providing personal and equipment.
Collingwood has also provided a home base for the Irish national team at the Lexus Centre during the 2002, '05 and '08 International Cups and will again provide support when the competition returns to Melbourne in 2011.
Collingwood’s national recruiting manager Derek Hine has been the main driver of this partnership and believes the agreement assists both parties on various levels.
“The club has had a strong relationship with Ireland over the last four years and we look forward to continuing it through this partnership,” Hine told Collingwoodfc.com.au.
“Our ties with Ireland have seen the club produce quality players including Marty Clarke and Kevin Dyas. Particularly in Clarke’s case, we have witnessed the high level of quality and skill which exists in the area.”
Collingwoodfc.com.au will keep supporters updated throughout the year on the developments between the club and the ARFLI.
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