New Zealand’s premier AFL club, North Shore Tigers & Maroochydore Roos QAFLW program based on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, are proud to announce a sister club partnership, initially focused on both club’s Women’s programs.

The mutual aim of the partnership is to develop pathways in both clubs programs with an initial focus on the women’s game in 2024 and expanding into a whole of program approach from 2025 onwards.

Roos Head of Women’s Football, Dave Hume said, “Our aim is firstly to provide a development pathway for both players & coaches to enhance football standards and knowledge in NZ, and secondly for talented athletes to be potentially drafted into the AFLW systems”   A major factor in forming this initial partnership is the vision and drive displayed by the Tigers’ executive, and secondly the impressive profile of the Tigers list, who will also form the basis of the Western Ravens in the upcoming 2024 NZ Women’s Premiership.

North Shore Tigers President, Justin Gauci, said on the partnership “this is a great opportunity for the Tigers to create a pathway to a club in Australia and provide opportunities for our players to grow and achieve at a higher level.  As a club we have been looking to create a link to a club for a while, and the timing of the approach from the Roos was welcomed.  This will be beneficial to our future development, and both partners are committed to a win/win outcome’”

Initially North Shore Tiger and Auckland AFL Team of the Year player, Axel Oswald, will make her way across to the Roos after the AFL NZ Premiership. Axel, who’s football journey began with Eastern Devils in Melbourne, impressing all at the club, and followed that up by being a stand-out in Auckland premiership.  Axel is also well in contention for the NZ Kahu Women’s side & the Roos are excited to have Axel take the next step in her quest for National representation, which ironically will come to fruition at Maroochydore in October.

Article added: Saturday 20 January 2024