Australian rules football is coming to Moncton for the first time.
A special event, called Gather Round, will be held Sunday at Field #1 at the Moncton Sportsdome.
The free event is bringing together members of the five AFL Atlantic teams – the Sydney Giants, Dartmouth Devils, Halifax Dockers, Cornwall Tigers and Saint John Bulldogs – who will shuffle the rosters for some exhibition games.
Newcomers are also being welcomed to join a team and give the sport a try.
On the schedule is a men’s game, a women’s game, a mixed game and a skills competition.
Australian rules football, also known as “footy,” is described as a dynamic, fast-paced sport played on a large, oval field with 18 players per team.
The object is to score points by kicking the ball between a set of four goalposts.
A kick through the two central points (a goal) is good for six points, while a kick between the central and outer post (a behind) scores one point.
Players are allowed to run with the ball, but must bounce it every 15 metres.
Passing is done by kicking or “handballing,” a striking motion using a clenched fist.
Anyone looking for more information about the clubs playing the sport in Canada or is interested in getting involved with the sport can visit AFL Canada’s website.
Gather Round is free and runs from 10 to 3 this Sunday.
