Pacific AFL Talent to Compete in Cairns’ Under-17 Challenge

Young athletes from the Pacific region will gather in Cairns, Australia, for the AFL Pacific region Under-17 Pacific Nations Challenge this September. Participants from Papua New Guinea, Nauru, Fiji, New Zealand, Vanuatu, and Tonga will compete against local teams, including the Cairns Lions and the Cape York and Torres Strait Crusaders, in both boys’ and girls’ competitions.

The event will unfold over three days, utilizing various venues throughout Cairns, such as Cazalys Stadium, Buchan Street Oval, and Watsons Oval. The player selections were made through the AFL Pacific High Performance Pathway Program, ensuring that the talent on display is representative of the best from these nations.

Cultural connections will play a significant role in this tournament. The AFL aims to create a fusion of cultures, allowing participants from Pasifika countries to engage with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The Cape York and Torres Strait Crusaders will include players who live at the AFL Cape York House for both boys and girls, representing remote areas of Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait.

Trisha Squires, AFL Queensland and International head, expressed excitement about hosting the event. “We are thrilled to welcome the invited Pacific nations in Cairns for the Under-17 Pacific Nations Challenge,” she stated. “We have genuine talent in these Pasifika nations, and through our high-performance pathway program, we want to provide opportunities for these players to showcase their ability and commitment to the game.”

Squires emphasized the importance of cultural exchange, noting that many players come from remote communities in Far North Queensland, the Torres Strait, and Cape York. “I have no doubt it will be a wonderful celebration, with all cultures connecting around their shared love of Australian rules football,” she added.

Rick Hanlon, Cape York programs manager, highlighted the success of last year’s U16 Tri Series in Cairns, which inspired the creation of this event. “The series provided a much-needed pathway for our participants, and we are delighted to again partner with the AFL International team and the Pacific Nations to bring this event to fruition,” he said.

Craig Lees, general manager of AFL Cairns/Cazalys Stadium, noted the broader impact of the tournament on the sport in the region. “This series is more than just matches; it’s about connection, opportunity, and pride. Each nation involved can take pride in the role they’ve played in making it happen,” he stated. He added that the players traveling from overseas to compete at Cazalys Stadium will experience a memorable moment, as it is one of the country’s premier sporting surfaces.

The final fixture and confirmation of participating teams will be announced closer to the event in September, with anticipation building for what promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and cultural exchange in Cairns.