The Barassi Youth Tournament (BYT) 2008 calls for more international youth teams!
The fifth international Barassi Youth Tournament (youth Australian rules football) is scheduled to be held in Canberra
in the first week of October 2008. The AFL, in partnership with the Barassi Tournament Board, will soon be calling for
expressions of interest from international schools teams wishing to participate in this major youth, non-elite, sporting
and cultural event.
The BYT is an international schools (16-year-old) non-elite Aussie football competition.
The Tournament is organised by a non-profit incorporated association in the ACT. Over the years (1998, 2001, 2003 and
2006) youth teams from the United States, South Africa, Denmark, Samoa, Nauru and New Zealand have competed against
invited Australian teams from the Australian Capital Territory, the Northern Territory (Kormilda College) and Western
Australia. Yes playing Australian football!
BYT president, Mark Cloney said: "The vision of the BYT is to be a catalyst and vehicle for the growth of Australian
football internationally at the school youth level, and to enhance cultural exchange between participants". The
tournament is scheduled for Canberra in the first week of October 2008, a date chosen to fit in with the AFL's 150-years
celebrations and the NAB national Draft Camp at the Australian Institute of Sport. Cloney said: "So far we have had
expressions of interest from the US, PNG, NZ, and the UK, but we want more teams! What a way to celebrate 150-years of
Australian football with an international youth tournament in Australia".
Cloney said: "Like all volunteer organisations the BYT is still looking for a potential 'naming right' sponsor for this
unique tournament". Please visit our web site at www.barassiyouthtournament.asn.au and catch-up on the latest
developments, contact information and possible sponsorship opportunities.
Notes: 2008 Barassi Youth Tournament
* Players participating in 2008 need to be no older then 16-years of age at the time of the tournament.
* International school teams are expected to meet their own costs of travel to Australia, travel insurance,
accommodation, uniforms, playing gear and meals.
* The tournament organisers provide transport to and from official training, ceremonial and playing venues, food for
players at official games, and entry to a selection of Canberra's (and Australia's) best tourism venues.
ENDS