New Zealand
NZ performs traditional Maori war dance
About the Team
New Zealand carries Oceania hopes in Canton
The New Zealand American Football Association is the governing body for the sport in New Zealand and, along with Australia, was a founding member of the Oceania Foundation of American Football (OFAF) in 1999.The American Football Northern Conference (AFNC) has been based in Auckland City for the past 28 years.
The legacy of the NZAFA Junior Football program introduced 12 years ago is one of excellence. The establishment of the junior program was definitely a watershed moment in the history of American football. Those clubs who bravely invested in youth football are now reaping benefits of their brave decision.
The country's Colts Competition mirrors the established college sport school program ensuring that all potential players have the opportunity to participate in the sport. Given the mass exodus of youth in every sport at this age, the NZAFA and GNZ have worked tirelessly to capture these players and provide a viable program.
The inaugural junior competition began with two teams in the 2006-2007 season, and the visual spectacle of these teams playing against each other provided a catalyst for other clubs to participate in the program.
For the 2007-2008 season, the senior men's competition changed its name to Premier Competition and six premier teams battled for the title of Unified Kiwibowl XXVI champions.
American Football Wellington (AFW) governs the sport of American Football in the Southern regions of the North Island. The area comprises the provinces of Wellington, Horowhenua, Manawatu and Wanganui. Teams in the AFW competition participate in a football season that runs from October through February for the honor of being crowned the CapitalBowl Champions.
The leaders and stakeholders of American football gathered together over the Anzac weekend of April 25-27, 2008, to discuss the current situation with American football in New Zealand and to develop a strategic plan. The forum was the first ever of its kind in New Zealand's 27-year involvement with the game of gridiron, as it is more commonly known.
New Zealand - www.eteamz.com/nz-american-football