World 9s to return in 2021

Australian Football International (AFI) is pleased to confirm that the World 9s will be returning in February 2021.

The event forms an important part of AFI’s strategic plan to showcase the international potential of Footy 9s. The long-term aim is to secure the inclusion of Footy 9s in the Olympic Games.

The 2021 World 9s will be held at the Box Hill Rugby Union Football Club in Melbourne.

The inaugural World 9s were held at Lakeside Stadium in Melbourne in 2019. The event was a great success, with the 8 competing teams including Chile, Ireland, Italy, Malta, New Zealand, South Africa, Switzerland and Team Harmony. However, the fact that the stadium has only one playing field meant that there was no room for expansion.

AFI CEO Brian Clarke hailed the move to the new venue. “Box Hill Rugby Union Football Club has great facilities, with 3 full size rugby fields, as well as full canteen and bar facilities. There has been a huge amount of interest in the World 9s, and this will allow us to include many more teams.

“We are also excited about including a women’s division for the first time. It’s fantastic to also give the girls the opportunity to represent their country.”

Jack Goodman, President of the Box Hill Rugby Union Football Club said, “Firstly a special thanks to AFI for choosing the Box Hill Rugby Union Football Club to host this amazing event. We see ourselves as not only a key Rugby Club in the local competition, but an essential Community provider for the City of Whitehorse! To be a key stakeholder supporting the growth and development of this version of Aussie Rules is a fantastic opportunity for us, and one we are excited about supporting moving forward. We look forward to ensuring its continued success and hope we can be the location of choice for many years to come.

“We also have the reputation as being the major events club of choice, currently hosting the following:

• Vic Rugby Senior Grand Finals (21 years in a row)
• Sri Lankan 7s Tournament
• Vic Masters Tournament
• Rebel Super W Home Games
• Vic Old Schools Tournament
• Australian Police Games
• Pacific Cup
• Rebel Rising Home Games

“We host many major events throughout the year and are excited to be hosting the AFI World 9s. We look forward to seeing you all down at the Stables in 2021!”

For more information about the World 9s please visit www.aflinternational.com/world9s.