WWC17ca PREVIEW: Australia

Australia comes into the 2017 IFAF Women’s World Championship as one of three teams set to take part in their first women’s tournament.

They’ll face a tough task as they open the tournament against the two-time silver medalist and host nation, Canada.

Australia should not be taken lightly. They have roughly the same, if not more women playing tackle football in Australia than Canada does. They will be well prepared as they benefit from the experience of head coach Jenn Welter who spent time coaching in the NFL with the Arizona Cardinals. She’s also well versed in the women’s tournament having previously played for Team USA.

Australia’s goal for the tournament is to medal. They were the first team to arrive in British Columbia where they are holding their training camp. The early arrival will not only help Australia’s squad prepare for their tournament debut but will also help the team adjust to the nearly 24-hour travel time.

On day two, Australia will face Mexico, another first-time entry to the women’s competition. Mexico has a long track record of success in men’s international tackle football competition and have been successful in the female draw at IFAF Flag Football World Championships, capturing bronze at the 2016 event with a win over Canada.

Players to watch

Women’s Tackle Football in Australia

American or gridiron football is not new to Australia, however, the sport has only been played by women for approximately five years. While still in its infancy, the nation already has 21 women’s club teams.

This year will be the first time that Australia will field a Women’s National Team in the sport of American Football and Team Australia are very excited to travel to Canada to compete in the 2017 IFAF Women’s World Championship. Australia place sixth in their first IFAF U19 World Championship appearance in 2016.

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