Move over Brendan Fevola, Mark Ricciutto and Steven Silvagni. The great game of Australian Rules Football has hit the peninsula of Italy as AFL Italia is born.
Eurosport commentator Luca Tramontin and other Italian AFL fans recently took part in a historic Australian Rules training camp in Milan.
Although not played there before, Tramontin hails that Aussie Rules is officially "on" in Italy, judging by the turn-out of almost 20 athletes who will go on to represent in Test Matches and a Nine-A-Side version of the game to be played on Rugby fields.
The aim of AFL Italia is to organise a four nation tournament in 2009 and play some friendly matches in preperation for a "dream-team" national squad.
AFL Italia will focus on participating in the European Union Cup in 2010 and the International Cup in Melbourne in 2011.
Italian-Australians have increased the profile of AFL in Italy. Greats such as Ron Barassi, the Silvagnis, Vin Catoggio, Albert Boromeo, John Benetti, Scott Camporeale, Mark Ricciutto, Tony Modra and current players Brendan Fevola, Andrew Carrazzo, Michael Rischitelli, Cyril Rioli, Nick Dal Santo and Domenic Cassisi have all contributed greatly to Australian Rules Football.
Other related links : www.italianteamofthecentury.com.au
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